New horizons: sub-Saharan Africa and the EBRD

A quarterly round-up of news from the EBRD Alumni Association

We reached out to alumni with experience of working in sub-Saharan Africa to share their tips for success in our newest region of operation.

Susan Smith | Karibu Afrika, welcome to Africa, EBRD!

Former EBRD Principal Adviser, VP, Policy and Partnerships | VP of Finance Solutions, Public Sector at Odyssey Energy Solutions

Step into the vibrant heart of Africa with Susan Smith as she unveils the immense potential and unique challenges facing the continent's renewable energy landscape. With over 600 million people lacking electricity and a flourishing fintech ecosystem, sub-Saharan Africa is ripe for innovative financial solutions that can leapfrog traditional models. Susan highlights the importance of personal relationships and tailored financial tools to reach the region's dynamic micro, small, and medium-sized enterprises, which are crucial for economic growth. Discover how the EBRD can harness its strengths to navigate this complex terrain and make a meaningful impact.

Artur Cima | Leveraging MDB experience to succeed in sub-Saharan Africa

Former EBRD Analyst, Power and Energy | Founder and Chief Executive Officer at ACML CI 

Artur shares insights on how the EBRD can thrive in sub-Saharan Africa by leveraging its experience and adapting to the region's unique challenges. He outlines four key strategies: embracing public-private partnerships (PPPs) to drive sustainable infrastructure development, fostering regional integration through enhanced transport networks, establishing a strong local presence for better project management, and coordinating with other development partners to amplify impact. Cima emphasises the importance of adaptability, relationship building, innovation, and sustainability in project design, while also cautioning against common pitfalls such as neglecting local expertise and failing to account for political volatility. Dive into Cima's comprehensive guide to discover how the EBRD can unlock the immense potential of sub-Saharan Africa and make a lasting impact on its development journey.

Inga Stefanowicz | Unlocking opportunities for growth and development

Former EBRD Principal Manager, EU Policy, DCF – Multilaterals | Head of Green and Digital Economy Section at the European Union Delegation to Nigeria and ECOWAS

Inga highlights the unique role of the EBRD in combining public and private finance to address the region's pressing development challenges, particularly as traditional funding sources struggle to meet the Sustainable Development Goals by 2030. While acknowledging the complexities of engaging with sub-Saharan Africa, including geographical and institutional distances from the EU, Stefanowicz believes that the EBRD's operational model centred on local insights and diverse partnerships will facilitate impactful investments and foster growth in this vibrant region. Discover how the EBRD's unique approach can unlock new opportunities for development in sub-Saharan Africa and the potential benefits for both the institution and its partners.

Grant Metcalfe-Smith | Under African skies

Former EBRD Head of Client Solutions Group, Finance Department | Managing Director at Sapience Consulting Europe Limited 

Grant Metcalfe-Smith reflects on a transformative year dedicated to Africa, coinciding with the EBRD’s expanding investments in sub-Saharan nations. In 2024, Grant stepped into a key role with the African Development Bank, leveraging the EBRD’s local currency expertise to tackle the pressing financial challenges facing the continent. Experience his journey through Rwanda, a burgeoning hub for sustainable finance, and discover his aspirations for continued impact across Africa and Asia in the coming years. Dive into a narrative that celebrates collaboration, innovation, and the vital importance of development finance in shaping a sustainable future.

Read the full issue

Alumni Insights | Issue 32, January 2025

Contact the EBRD Alumni Association

alumniE@ebrd.com