Senior leaders from the International Finance Corporation (IFC) and the Banking Association of South Africa (BASA) gathered to discuss Africa’s financial future. This took place at the Radisson Red Hotel, in Rosebank, on October 8.

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IFC regional director Claudia Conceição highlighted South African banks’ potential to lead both domestically and across Africa, especially in energy, infrastructure, and sustainable finance. She outlined the IFC’s mission to unlock private sector investment, to create jobs and support economic growth, including initiatives like Mission 300, which aims to connect 300 million Africans to electricity by 2030.

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BASA’s managing director Bongi Kuene discussed the association’s work with IFC, to integrate climate risk into banking strategies and identify opportunities for sustainable finance. IFC principal investment officer Defne Akarcali shared that $3b has been invested in Southern African financial institutions, with a strong focus on supporting small, medium, and micro enterprises, women-owned businesses, and climate-aligned projects.

The discussion set the stage for the upcoming Africa Financial Summit in Casablanca, Morocco, where financial leaders from across the continent will explore growth opportunities, showcase continental leadership, and further promote sustainable development.

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