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Invest Africa Conference

17 October 2024

Shaping tomorrow: Connectivity, technology and infrastructure in Africa.

Nedbank Corporate and Investment Banking (CIB), together with Invest Africa, is hosting this pioneering panel discussion in Johannesburg on 17 October 2024. 

 

Unpacking the future of Africa’s growth potential

 

Despite the enormous growth potential, Africa's infrastructure and logistics development faces numerous challenges that hinder economic growth, trade, and overall development. Many countries struggle to secure funding for large-scale infrastructure projects due to budget constraints, public debt, and limited access to international capital markets. Political instability and inconsistent regulatory frameworks further deter foreign investment.

Moderated by Zakhele Mayisa, Nedbank CIB’s Head of Infrastructure, Water and Telecoms, the panel discussion is set to explore innovative strategies to overcome these challenges, such as improving governance, enhancing regional cooperation, and leveraging technology. It will also focus on securing sustainable financing mechanisms and fostering collaboration among governments, international organisations, and private sector investors.

 

Exploring ways to address the barriers of sustainable infrastructure and technological growth in Africa

 

Leveraging our panellists' knowledge of infrastructure ecosystems, we will be sharing best practices and innovative approaches to promote the sector across the continent. Private sector investment in Africa is specifically hindered by challenges such as budget instability, weak regulatory frameworks, and policy uncertainty. To boost economic activity and attract investment, these challenges require coordinated policy reforms and strategic investments, which are vital for creating a business environment conducive to investment and sustainable development. Effective policies and regulatory reforms are essential for unlocking the continent's economic potential.

The panel discussion aims to foster dialogue and collaboration among key stakeholders to address regulatory challenges and opportunities in the African infrastructure and logistics landscape. 

Policy reforms are necessary to establish an environment that encourages private sector investment. Transparent regulatory frameworks, appropriate tariffs, and responsible governance are also key components. The panel will discuss the merits of prioritising private-sector efficiency to attract investment and generate employment.

The panel will also explore the role of digital transformation in driving innovation and efficiency in infrastructure. The slow adoption of modern technology and digital solutions in infrastructure and logistics has hampered efficiency and growth, and the subsequent lack of comprehensive data and effective information systems for planning and managing infrastructure projects has led to inefficiencies and increased risks. Through collaborative thoughts and discussions, it is possible to begin sustainable transformation across Africa. By promoting a stable and predictable business environment, African nations can attract more investment and drive sustainable economic growth.

 

The importance of investing in infrastructure for the success of the African Continental Free Trade Agreement (AfCFTA)

 

One of the key areas of discussion will be the role of infrastructure investment in ensuring the success of AfCFTA. The success of AfCFTA hinges on massive infrastructure investments in areas such as electricity generation, transportation, and logistics. The African Development Bank estimates that Africa needs between $130 and $170 billion annually for infrastructure, but the continent faces a funding gap of around $100 billion. Development finance institutions and commercial banks will need to play a pivotal role in addressing this gap through blended funding solutions.

The panel will explore ways to address the funding gap, improve Africa's sovereign risk, and attract investment. Key strategies include promoting political stability, ensuring transparent policies, and establishing a sound regulatory framework. These factors can help African nations access capital markets more easily, making infrastructure investment more viable.

 

More about Zakhele

 

Zakhele Mayisa

Co-Head Africa Infrastructure Finance Project Finance, PPPs and Concessions, Nedbank CIB

With 2 decades of experience in infrastructure finance, Mayisa has led innovative transactions across multiple sectors and countries. His expertise will guide discussions on leveraging private sector involvement to address Africa’s infrastructure challenges, as well as the role of development finance institutions in financing large-scale projects.

Meet the speakers

Mahendra Beharie

Mahendra Beharie

Chief Investment Officer, sub-Saharan Africa DHL Express

Keri Leicher

Keri Leicher

Group Head, Security Information Services, Castor Vali

Annamri Uys

Annamri Uys

Director Advisory, Africa, Turner Townsend

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