EIB Global Invests $37.5 Million in Alta Semper Fund II to Scale Healthcare and Life Sciences in Africa

Egypt will play a central role as a regional hub for cooperation and deployment.

The European Investment Bank (EIB), through its development arm EIB Global, has committed $37.5 million to Alta Semper Fund II, a private equity fund focused on scaling pharmaceutical, medical equipment, and healthcare technology companies across Africa.

The investment targets primarily North Africa (around 70%), with the remainder directed to sub-Saharan Africa (about 30%), supporting innovation, sustainability, and local manufacturing in the life sciences sector while deepening EU–Africa trade and value-chain integration.

The signing took place in Cairo, attended by Egypt’s Minister of Planning, Economic Development and International Cooperation H.E. Rania Al-Mashat, EIB Vice-President Gelsomina Vigliotti, Alta Semper Capital CEO Afsane Jetha, and IFC Division Director for North Africa and the Horn of Africa Cheick-Oumar Sylla.

Scaling Local Healthcare Solutions with Global Links

Managed by Alta Semper Capital, a female-led private equity firm with a strong track record in healthcare investments, the fund will back companies expanding access to affordable, high-quality healthcare products and services, strengthening human capital and inclusive economic growth.

Many portfolio companies are expected to partner with European pharmaceutical, MedTech and equipment suppliers, integrating African healthcare businesses into the EU life sciences value chain while building resilient regional manufacturing capacity.

“With this investment, we reaffirm Europe’s commitment to resilient healthcare systems and equitable growth across Africa,” said Gelsomina Vigliotti, EIB Vice-President. “Alta Semper Fund II will empower innovative businesses—many led by women—to strengthen local production, deliver affordable solutions, and create quality jobs.”

Egypt as a Regional Platform for Health and Investment

Egypt will play a central role as a regional hub for cooperation and deployment.

“Egypt represents a pivotal platform for international cooperation that directly benefits citizens and mobilises funding for both public and private sectors,” said Minister Rania Al-Mashat. “This partnership will support pharmaceutical and healthcare companies across Africa, promote innovation and sustainability, and deepen EU–Africa trade relations.”

Mobilising Private Capital for Health Security

Alta Semper Capital CEO Afsane Jetha said the EIB’s participation marks a milestone for the fund.

“This partnership significantly strengthens our ability to deploy capital at scale, accelerate portfolio growth, and meet Africa’s rapidly growing demand for quality healthcare,” she said. “Our investment strategy bridges gaps in healthcare services and selectively backs proven, disruptive technologies that expand access and health equity.”

The International Finance Corporation (IFC), an existing investor in the fund, said the operation demonstrates the power of blended finance.

“Resilient economies start with local solutions,” said Cheick-Oumar Sylla, IFC Division Director. “By mobilising private capital alongside partners like EIB, this investment supports women-led and locally rooted healthcare businesses across Egypt and Africa.”

Strong Local and International Backing

Egypt’s Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises Development Agency (MSMEDA) confirmed it is finalising its own investment commitment to the fund, expected by Q1 2026, further reinforcing domestic support.

The operation reflects EIB Global’s strategy to crowd in private capital by partnering with experienced fund managers capable of acting as market catalysts. In addition to EIB and IFC backing, several private investors are in advanced discussions to join at final closing.

Aligned with EU Global Health and Global Gateway Goals

The investment aligns with the EU Global Health Strategy and the EU–Africa Global Gateway Investment Package, supporting health security, regional manufacturing, and innovation. Gender equality is embedded in the fund’s approach, with at least 30% of the portfolio expected to advance gender equality, including support for women-led enterprises and inclusive employment practices.

By mobilising capital well beyond the EIB’s initial commitment, Alta Semper Fund II aims to deliver a “win-win” partnership—improving health outcomes, boosting private-sector growth, and reinforcing sustainable EU–Southern Neighbourhood cooperation.