Africa’s growth must be financed from within,” experts at the Africa Investment Conference 2025 emphasised, urging governments to deepen local capital markets and cut reliance on external aid.
“Africa cannot depend solely on external financing. We must unlock capital within our borders,” said Francis Nasyomba, President of CFA Society East Africa.
Kenya Positions Itself as an Investment Gateway
Kenya’s Principal Secretary for Investment Promotion, Abubakar Hassan Abubakar, emphasised the country’s role as a hub for East African investment. He highlighted ongoing reforms aimed at improving the ease of doing business, enhancing investor protections, and creating a predictable regulatory environment.
“We are committed to positioning Kenya as a gateway for investment into the region,” Abubakar noted, underscoring the government’s push to attract long‑term capital.
Demographics Driving Urgency
Africa’s rapid population growth, urbanisation, and rising demand for infrastructure and technology are intensifying the need for sustainable financing. Experts warned that external loans and aid alone cannot meet the continent’s development needs.
Instead, mobilising domestic capital will be key to funding transport, energy, and digital infrastructure projects, while also fostering innovation and entrepreneurship.
Regional Cooperation and Market Connectivity
Speakers stressed the importance of cross‑border financial market linkages to boost liquidity and investor confidence. Harmonising regulations and building regional investment platforms could accelerate intra‑African capital flows, making local exchanges more attractive to global investors.
“AfIC is not just about conversation. It is about action, aligning policymakers, capital providers, and market practitioners to deliver solutions,” Nasyomba added.
