AFC Hosts $45.8bn Infrastructure Summit to Curb Africa’s Debt Reliance

The Africa Finance Corporation (AFC) is currently convening the inaugural “Africa We Build” Summit in Nairobi (April 23–24, 2026). The summit marks a strategic shift from standalone projects to integrated infrastructure systems designed to de-risk the continent’s industrialization.

With a massive $45.8 billion pipeline on the table, the AFC is focusing on “trapped” domestic capital—pension funds, insurance assets, and local banks—to lead the financing alongside a $2 billion mobilization from global lenders.

Regional Power Plays: Corridors and Connectivity

The summit highlights the transition to “Corridor-based” economics, moving resources from mines to markets via high-speed, electrified rail.

Kenya: The Infrastructure Anchor

As the host nation, Kenya is unveiling a multi-sector blueprint focused on food security and global logistics.

• Kenya National Infrastructure Fund: A bold vehicle aiming to mobilize $38.7 billion over the next decade. It prioritizes transport, energy, water, and agribusiness to shift away from debt-heavy financing.

• Jomo Kenyatta International (JKIA) Expansion: A $1.5 billion upgrade to handle 22 million passengers. This project is a centerpiece for Kenya’s ambition as the “Gateway to East Africa,” with financial closure targeted for December 2026.

• Commercial Irrigation: A pipeline of projects (up to $1.8 billion) where 60% of funding is expected from private commercial debt, aimed at stabilizing the cost of living and boosting agribusiness exports.

Green Energy & Regional Hydrology

Energy security is being addressed through Public-Private Partnerships (PPPs) and blended finance models.

• Ethiopia’s Solar & Wind Blitz: The Gad II, Weranso ($277.4M), and Adigala Wind ($150M) projects are set to add nearly 400MW to the regional grid, supporting Ethiopia’s role as a green energy exporter.

• Uganda’s Angololo Dam: At $132.2 million, this transboundary project on the Malaba River serves the dual purpose of hydropower and large-scale irrigation for border communities.

• Côte d’Ivoire’s Green Milestone: Just ahead of the summit, the AFC closed the €43 million Poro Power Green Bond, financing the country’s largest solar plant—a replicable model for the summit’s attendees.