RABAT, Morocco, is hosting thousands of global investors, African business leaders, and government officials for the 2024 Africa Investment Forum Market Days, running from December 4 to 6. The event, under the theme ‘Leveraging Innovative Partnerships for Scale’, aims to drive transformative investments across Africa, a continent poised to become a 2.5 billion-strong market by 2050.
Since its inception in 2018, the Africa Investment Forum, led by nine development finance institutions, has attracted over $180bn in investment interest. Its focus on critical sectors such as energy, infrastructure, healthcare, and agriculture has catalysed growth and innovation across Africa.
Dr Akinwumi Adesina, President of the African Development Bank Group and Chairman of the Africa Investment Forum, will address the opening ceremony, with Morocco’s Minister of Economy and Finance, Nadia Fattah Alaoui, representing the host nation.
‘This event is the next chapter in Africa’s growth story,’ said Max Magor Ndiaye, Senior Director of Syndications at the Africa Investment Forum. ‘It is where transformative investments meet bold collaboration, creating a unique platform for businesses to forge impactful partnerships.’
Key highlights of Market Days
This year’s forum promises to accelerate high-impact projects while fostering networking opportunities among global leaders:
- SME growth and networking: Over 500 African SMEs and institutional investors will explore partnerships in sustainability, technology, and human capital development.
- Research insights: A study funded by the African Development Bank will spotlight opportunities to enhance Africa’s food, energy, and health sovereignty, alongside strategies to boost job creation.
- Pipeline of bankable projects: Delegates will access structured, high-impact investment opportunities across diverse sectors.
- Real-time deal-making: Boardroom sessions will connect investors directly with project sponsors to fast-track commitments.
- Flagship initiatives: Programmes like Women as Investment Champions and Sports as a Business Catalyst aim to harness Africa’s unique strengths.
Transformative projects
One highlight from last year’s forum was a $5.7bn Green Ammonia project in South Africa, expected to produce nearly 940,000 tons of green ammonia by 2028. Such initiatives underscore the forum’s pivotal role in driving sustainable development.
Another success story is the Zaria Court project, pitched by Masai Ujiri, President of the Toronto Raptors, during the 2022 Market Days. The sports and entertainment hub, set to open in Kigali in 2025, exemplifies innovative approaches to community engagement and sustainable development.
With a commitment to leveraging partnerships, the 2024 Africa Investment Forum aims to chart a path for Africa’s long-term growth, promoting innovation, sustainability, and economic transformation.
