The African Export-Import Bank (Afreximbank) has reiterated its dedication to decreasing Africa's reliance on external financial systems and imported refined goods by continuing to support transformative projects that enhance the continent's productive capacity. This commitment was highlighted by Denys Denya, the Senior Executive Vice President of Finance, Administration, and Banking Services, during a virtual media briefing.
Focus on Value Addition and Industrialization
Denya stated that Afreximbank remains focused on financing initiatives that strengthen value addition, industrialization, and self-sufficiency in critical sectors such as refining, logistics, and manufacturing. He emphasized that the bank's involvement in refining projects across Africa demonstrates its long-term commitment to the continent's industrial transformation. A prominent example is the facilitation of financing for the Dangote Refinery, a landmark energy infrastructure project expected to significantly reduce Nigeria's dependence on imported petroleum products while improving regional fuel security.
According to Denya, these interventions are designed to ensure that Africa's natural resources are processed within the continent, thereby retaining economic value locally and reducing exposure to global market disruptions. Strengthening domestic refining capacity is central to Africa's industrial ambitions, as it supports job creation, stimulates ancillary industries, and builds resilience against foreign exchange pressures and supply chain vulnerabilities.
Strong Financial Performance in 2025
Denya noted that Afreximbank's robust financial performance in 2025 underscores its resilience and ability to drive its strategic agenda across Africa. Total assets and contingencies increased by 21 percent to $48.5 billion in 2025, compared to $40.1 billion in 2024. Net income rose by 19 percent to $1.2 billion from $973.5 million in the prior year. These results indicate sustained financial resilience, increased market confidence, and strategic execution.
This performance positions Afreximbank to deepen its interventions in trade finance, industrial development, and infrastructure delivery across the continent. Denya also cited the success of the bank's $2 billion dual-tranche syndicated facility as a major signal of growing investor confidence in its long-term strategy. The facility, which was the largest-ever syndicated loan and oversubscribed, attracted over 30 global lenders despite challenging financing conditions. Denya stated that this reflects investors' belief in the clarity of the bank's vision.
Investor Confidence and Developmental Mission
Denya emphasized that the transaction reflects not only the institution's financial credibility but also the strength of its developmental mission. He said, "We believe in our mission. We have been engaging those lenders on what we are doing and the credit profile of the bank. They believe in our mission, they believe in what they see, not only in what the rating agencies say." He added that the bank's mission is clear, and the implementation of projects like PAPSS, AfrexInsure, and FEDA has yielded results, giving lenders confidence in the institution's credibility.
Afreximbank's renewed focus on industrialization and refining comes as it positions itself as a leading financier of transformative projects under the African Continental Free Trade Area framework, with emphasis on infrastructure, regional integration, and productive sector expansion.
Support for Member Countries Facing Economic Shocks
Denya said the bank has intensified support to member countries facing global economic shocks, including disruptions from the ongoing Middle East conflict, through a $10 billion crisis response programme. This programme is designed to sustain essential imports such as fuel, food, fertilizers, and pharmaceuticals, while also supporting exporters who benefit from higher commodity prices, particularly in oil and gas. It also provides targeted relief to affected sectors such as aviation and tourism.
The initiative is already gaining traction in countries like Tanzania and Kenya, and its broader impact is expected to become more visible across Africa in the coming period. Denya noted that the aim is to ensure sustained essential imports and support exporters, with the effect becoming greater across Africa.
