EAAIF Raises $325m Debt Facility To Boost Investments In Emerging Market Infrastructure

The Emerging Africa & Asia Infrastructure Fund (EAAIF), managed by Ninety One and part of the Private Infrastructure Development Group (PIDG), has secured $325 million in new debt facilities, demonstrating strong investor confidence and commitment to infrastructure development in emerging markets.

This latest financing brings total recent commitments to $620 million, surpassing the Fund’s initial target of $500 million ahead of schedule. With an A2 rating from Moody’s, EAAIF continues to solidify its position as a preferred partner for investors seeking scalable and untapped opportunities in the infrastructure debt sector.

Leading the financing was Allianz Global Investors (AGI), part of the Allianz Group, which committed €100 million to EAAIF. Other notable contributions include $75 million from ABSA, $50 million from Standard Bank, a $50 million credit facility from the Japanese multinational Sumitomo Mitsui Banking Corporation (SMBC), and €40 million from Sweden’s development finance institution, Swedfund. This new debt package builds on EAAIF’s previous capital raise of $294 million secured in 2024.

The Company said this accomplishment underscores the Fund’s capability to unite a diverse community of public and private investors, driven by a common goal of channeling capital, innovation, and expertise to enhance infrastructure debt markets in Africa and Asia.

“The funds raised will enable EAAIF to generate a significant sustainable development impact while delivering positive financial returns. The strategy includes targeted investments aimed at advancing digital economies, scaling transition infrastructure, and reshaping power markets, with a goal of mobilizing $1 billion in infrastructure investments by 2028,” it noted.

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Co-head of EM Alternative Credit at Ninety One and Managing Director for EAAIF, Martijn Proos, stated, “these successful debt raises highlight the strong confidence global investors have in EAAIF’s ability to create attractive investment solutions that capitalize on untapped opportunities in emerging markets.

“By enhancing our capital base and diversifying our funding sources, we are well-positioned to drive growth and facilitate economic transformation through private infrastructure debt investment in groundbreaking projects.”

CEO of PIDG, Philippe Valahu, said, “as a PIDG company, EAAIF is committed to delivering essential infrastructure that unlocks economic potential in the markets we serve.

“This milestone is a significant advancement for PIDG, with the goal of delivering $9 billion in new infrastructure commitments and mobilizing $25 billion in additional financing by 2030.”

CEO of Swedfund, Maria Håkansson, emphasized, “EAAIF plays a vital role in financing impactful infrastructure projects across Africa. Its efforts are crucial in challenging perceptions around risk in African infrastructure investment and mobilizing private capital, addressing the financing gap while fostering better environmental and social outcomes.”

Executive vice president for Leveraged Finance at Standard Bank Corporate & Investment Banking, Neha Bantha added, “we are proud to be part of this consortium, which will support funding for strategic infrastructure projects that align with our mission to drive Africa’s growth.

“This transaction is an integral part of our broader efforts to deliver innovative financing solutions and structured capital that advance our vision.”