The need for increased investments in sustainable energy supply in Sub-Saharan Africa is recognised as a top priority.

A seminar titled Opportunity Africa: Sustainable Energy Investments held in Copenhagen, Denmark, brought together a broad group of actors with a common interest in sustainable energy activities. The seminar was seen as key to linking Nordic capital and know-how in renewables to credible projects and investment vehicles in the continent sponsored by the African Development Bank (AfDB).

The gathering was jointly organised by the Danish Development Agency (DANIDA), the UNEP Risoe Centre and the AfDB. The participants discussed new investment opportunities in sustainable energy in Africa, with participation from Nordic private sector, African project developers, and representatives of the AfDB. In particular, the event presented the opportunities offered by the specific funds set up with the AfDB, concrete projects under development, as well practical guidance for interested investors.

The event was attended by financial investors eager to find new investments, projects developers, industry, country stakeholders and donors. The range of funds and initiatives available to unlock investments in the sector was highlighted.

The AfDB presented the Sustainable Energy Fund for Africa (SEFA), a US$ 60-million facility, to provide project development and equity financing to enhance bankability of projects and catalyse private investments in small to medium-sized projects.

The event also provided an opportunity for AfDB to present the Africa50 Fund, a vehicle which AfDB Director for Business Development Tas Anvaripour describes as a “game-changer in African infrastructure finance.”