AFC Secures Record $2 Billion Loan for Africa Infrastructure Push

AFC President and Chief Executive Officer Samaila Zubairu said Africa's future growth will increasingly depend on interconnected infrastructure systems rather than standalone projects.

Africa Finance Corporation (AFC) has raised a record-breaking US$2 billion syndicated loan, marking the largest financing facility in the institution's history and highlighting growing international confidence in Africa's infrastructure and industrial development potential. The funding round attracted strong participation from financial institutions across Asia-Pacific, Europe, the Middle East and Africa. Originally launched with a target of US$1.6 billion, investor demand prompted AFC to increase the facility size to US$2 billion.

The deal was completed despite ongoing global economic uncertainty, volatile financial markets and geopolitical tensions, underlining the confidence investors have in AFC's long-term strategy and financial strength. The infrastructure financier said the new capital will significantly enhance its ability to invest in critical sectors that support economic growth, trade, industrialisation and job creation across the continent.

Focus Shifts to Integrated Infrastructure and Industrial Growth

AFC President and Chief Executive Officer Samaila Zubairu said Africa's future growth will increasingly depend on interconnected infrastructure systems rather than standalone projects. According to Zubairu, investments that link energy, transport, logistics, industry and technology are essential for building competitive economies capable of sustaining long-term growth. He noted that AFC has positioned itself at the centre of this transformation by developing infrastructure platforms that not only improve connectivity but also create industrial opportunities, attract investment and generate employment.

The financing comes during a period of rapid expansion for AFC. The corporation recently announced plans to open its first regional office outside Lagos, Nigeria, with a new hub in Nairobi, Kenya. At the same time, AFC's total assets have surpassed US$19 billion, while its membership has expanded to 48 African countries. The corporation has also been promoting the mobilisation of domestic pension and institutional capital to finance infrastructure projects, a key recommendation highlighted in its State of Africa's Infrastructure Report 2026.

Strong Credit Ratings and Broad Banking Support

AFC's ability to secure the record facility has been supported by its strong credit profile. Earlier this year, S&P Global Ratings assigned the institution an 'A' long-term rating with a positive outlook. The corporation also maintains investment-grade ratings from Moody's and the Japan Credit Rating Agency. The syndication was led by major international financial institutions, including Barclays, Commerzbank, First Abu Dhabi Bank and Rand Merchant Bank. Several other banks from Europe, Asia, the Middle East and Africa also participated in the transaction.

AFC Executive Board Member and Head of Financial Services Banji Fehintola described the deal as a landmark achievement for the institution. He said the strong support from international lenders demonstrates continued confidence in AFC's ability to deliver large-scale infrastructure and industrial projects that create lasting economic benefits across the continent. As African countries seek to close infrastructure gaps and accelerate industrial development, the record financing is expected to strengthen AFC's role as one of the continent's most influential development finance institutions.