AfDB underscores private sector’s role in economic transformation of Africa
Mali, Oct. 2026 The African Development Bank (AfDB) has underscored the central role of the private sector in the economic transformation of Africa and in creating sustainable jobs for young people and women.
He described the private sector as a key driver of growth, investment and job creation.
“Our ambition is to help businesses better understand the instruments available and turn business opportunities into bankable projects that can attract the financing needed for their development,” he said.
“This meeting marks an important step in bringing Malian businesses closer to financing mechanisms suited to their needs.
Mossadeck Bally, the CNPM President, said the priority now was to structure projects more effectively, direct project sponsors to the appropriate financing windows and support initiatives that can generate growth and jobs.
He urged participants to turn the discussions into concrete action for the benefit of the national economy.
Experts from the bank group presented the main financial instruments available to the private sector, and the institution’s approach to supporting investment.
Discussions covered blended finance, equity investments in companies, disbursement timelines, financing costs, political risk guarantees and technical assistance.
Participants also explored ways to develop mechanisms suited to public-private partnerships in high-potential sectors, including renewable energy, agro-industry, transport, infrastructure and the cotton value chain.
The discussions identified several avenues for improving project preparation, facilitating access to financing and making projects more attractive to private investors.
The parties agreed to continue dialogue with professional organisations, financial institutions and relevant public-sector stakeholders to build a pipeline of bankable projects capable of mobilising greater investment to support private sector growth and Mali’s economic transformation.
Key stakeholders at the meeting include the private sector, public authorities, financial institutions and development partners, also discussed ways to support bankable projects.
The meeting sought to raise awareness of the bank group’s financing mechanisms, products and terms while establishing direct dialogue with businesses and professional organisations on their needs, constraints and investment opportunities.
The event was part of the Bank Group’s 2026-2031 Country Strategy for Mali, and attracted about 100 participants.
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