Africa Finance Corporation (AFC) (www.AfricaFC.org), the continent’s leading infrastructure solutions provider, marked a significant milestone by closing the market at the London Stock Exchange (LSE). This prestigious recognition underscores AFC’s pivotal role in mobilizing global capital to accelerate Africa’s economic transformation.
The Market Close Ceremony followed two landmark capital markets transactions by AFC: an oversubscribed US$500 million senior unsecured 5-year Eurobond issued in October 2024, marking its debut listing on the LSE, and the issuance of its inaugural US$500 million perpetual hybrid bond in January 2025. These transactions reflect strong investor confidence in AFC’s robust credit profile and its high-impact investments in Africa’s core infrastructure sectors.
Roundtable on Africa Risk Premium
As part of the event, AFC, in partnership with Africa Practice—a strategic consulting firm advising investors and development partners—hosted a roundtable discussion at the LSE. Themed “Unpacking the Africa Risk Premium: Costs, Causes, and Mitigation Strategies,” the session convened leading investors, banks, and credit rating agencies to explore how global risk perceptions influence the cost of capital for African borrowers. The discussions highlighted actionable solutions to correct market mispricing, unlock more competitive financing, and enhance investment flows into Africa’s infrastructure landscape.
Symbolic Market Close Ceremony
Following the discussions, AFC’s delegation, alongside key partners, participated in the ceremonial Market Close at the LSE. The ceremony was marked by the presentation of a commemorative glass tablet and the signing of the LSE’s Welcome Book, symbolizing AFC’s growing engagement with international capital markets.
Samaila Zubairu, President & CEO of AFC, stated:
“Closing the market at the London Stock Exchange underscores the global recognition of AFC as a resilient and reliable bridge to Africa’s prosperous future. Our discussions reinforced the urgency of reshaping risk perceptions to unlock affordable financing and accelerate the development of critical infrastructure—essential for Africa’s industrialization and economic integration.”
Dame Julia Hoggett DBE, CEO of the London Stock Exchange plc, commented:
“We were delighted to welcome AFC to the London Stock Exchange and to recognize their commitment to advancing Africa’s infrastructure agenda at our Market Close Ceremony. AFC’s landmark transactions demonstrate the vital role of their innovative financing solutions and highlight London’s capital markets as a gateway for investment into projects that support economic development across Africa.”
Strengthening AFC’s Financial Base for Africa’s Growth
AFC continues to diversify its funding sources to support Africa’s infrastructure transformation. In addition to its recent bond issuances, AFC successfully secured a US$400 million Shariah-compliant Commodity Murabaha Facility, further strengthening its liquidity to finance critical projects across the continent. Furthermore, AFC received AAAspc credit ratings from S&P Global (China) and AAA from China Chengxin International Credit Rating Co. Ltd., positioning the Corporation for bond issuance in China’s domestic market.
AFC remains steadfast in its commitment to closing Africa’s infrastructure gap, mobilizing global capital, and driving sustainable economic growth across the continent.