Pembani Remgro Infrastructure: $80 Million Boost for African Development
Deal News | Dec 05, 2024 | Pembani Remgro Infrastructure

The European Investment Bank (EIB) has announced a significant $80 million commitment to the Pembani Remgro Infrastructure Fund II (PRIF II) at the Africa Investment Forum, marking its largest-ever investment in an African fund. The fund aims to address infrastructure gaps in sub-Saharan Africa by investing in renewable energy, digital infrastructure, and transportation projects that align with the EIB's Climate Bank Roadmap. Given Africa's significant $100 billion annual infrastructure financing gap, such investments are crucial to unlocking economic growth and providing essential services. Currently, Africa attains a mere 2% of global clean energy investment despite its renewable potential. PRIF II will also focus on projects that enhance digital connectivity, targeting the approximately 900 million Africans lacking internet access. The fund anticipates creating 1,400 full-time jobs and advancing inclusive growth, gender equality, and opportunities for women and young entrepreneurs. The fund adheres to global environmental and social standards, aiming to leverage additional private and public funding to exceed its target size and deliver impactful projects. This initiative underscores the EIB's contribution to the EU Global Gateway strategy, which aims to mobilize €300 billion for global infrastructure by 2027, with a primary focus on Africa.
Sectors
- Infrastructure Investment
- Renewable Energy
- Digital Connectivity
Geography
- Africa – The investment targets infrastructure projects in sub-Saharan Africa, addressing the continent's significant infrastructure financing gap.
- European Union – The initiative aligns with the EU's Global Gateway strategy, which aims to bolster infrastructure investment globally, with a focus on Africa.
Industry
- Infrastructure Investment – The article discusses investment in infrastructure, focusing on renewable energy, digital infrastructure, and transportation in sub-Saharan Africa.
- Renewable Energy – The fund will invest in renewable energy projects, a sector highlighted due to Africa's untapped potential despite receiving only 2% of global clean energy investment.
- Digital Connectivity – Investment in digital infrastructure to enhance connectivity, bridging the digital divide with initiatives such as a data centre platform.
Financials
- $80 million – EIB's largest equity commitment to an African fund, directed towards Pembani Remgro Infrastructure Fund II.
- $355 million – Total targeted commitments for Pembani Remgro Infrastructure Fund II with public and private funding.
Participants
Name | Role | Type | Description |
---|---|---|---|
European Investment Bank (EIB) | Investor | Company | The EIB is the lending institution of the EU, contributing $80 million to the Pembani Remgro Infrastructure Fund II. |
Pembani Remgro Infrastructure Fund II | Fund | Company | The target fund receiving $80 million from EIB, focusing on infrastructure projects in sub-Saharan Africa. |
Herc van Wyk | CEO | Person | CEO of Pembani Remgro Infrastructure Fund II, responsible for managing the fund's investments. |
Ambroise Fayolle | Vice-President | Person | Vice-President of the EIB, announcing the $80 million commitment. |