PRIVATE FINANCING: Enko Capital raises $100 million to encourage businesses to access credit in Africa
La voix des entreprises 
(LVDE) – The pan-African asset manager Enko Capital has raised $100 million (approximately CFAF 65 billion) in the first close of its Enko Impact Credit Fund, aimed at improving access to credit across the continent.
Enko Capital, a leading player in Africa’s asset management industry, has reached a major milestone with the first close of its Enko Impact Credit Fund. The fund successfully raised $100 million, or around CFAF 65 billion, toward its total target of $150 million (CFAF 84.4 billion). This achievement marks a turning point in the landscape of private financing in Africa, a sector still in full expansion.
The fundraising was backed by several renowned international financial institutions, including British International Investment (BII) and the International Finance Corporation (IFC), as well as a variety of African pension funds, asset managers, and family offices. This diverse investor base reflects growing confidence in the continent’s economic development potential.
The primary objective of the Enko Impact Credit Fund is to provide U.S. dollar-denominated loans to mid-market companies in sub-Saharan Africa. The fund focuses on profitable, well-established businesses operating in resilient sectors such as agriculture, telecommunications, manufacturing, renewable energy, and financial services. This strategic sectoral focus underscores the fund’s commitment to supporting industries that play a pivotal role in driving sustainable economic growth on the continent.
Alain Nkontchou, Managing Partner at Enko Capital, highlighted the significance of this first close, stating : “The success of our flagship private credit strategy reflects growing investor confidence in Africa’s sustainable development potential.” His remarks underscore Enko Capital’s commitment to transforming the private credit landscape in Africa.
Mohamed Gouled, IFC Vice President for Industries, also expressed support, saying : “Expanding access to finance for mid-sized businesses is essential to driving inclusive growth in Africa. IFC’s support for the Enko Impact Credit Fund demonstrates our commitment to providing flexible, long-term financing to African companies to foster their expansion and job creation.” His statement reinforces the importance of supporting key sectors—from agribusiness to telecommunications—for sustainable economic progress.
Through the Enko Impact Credit Fund, Enko Capital aims to build a robust private credit ecosystem in Africa capable of attracting greater international capital. The initiative seeks to reduce the financing gap faced by SMEs and mid-sized companies, which make up a substantial share of the continent’s economy yet often struggle to access the funding needed for growth.
At a time when mobilizing private capital is becoming increasingly essential for Africa’s economic development, this initiative complements traditional financing sources, which remain insufficient to meet the scale of investment needs. The Enko Capital fund therefore fits into a broader effort to energize African economies and support business growth.
In summary, Enko Capital’s CFAF 65 billion fundraising represents a major step forward for private financing on the continent. The fund has the potential to transform Africa’s economic landscape by facilitating access to credit for businesses—fueling innovation, job creation, and sustainable growth for the continent’s future.
Tressy Chouente
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