Proparco announced a significant $5 million investment in the Equator Africa Fund on Monday, aimed at enhancing climate innovation across Sub-Saharan Africa.
Equator Africa Fund, founded by Nijhad Jamal, focuses on early-stage startups addressing urgent climate challenges through renewable energy, sustainable agriculture, and green mobility solutions.
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Investment impact
This funding is crucial for building climate resilience in a region that is particularly vulnerable to the impacts of climate change.
Proparco’s Fabrice Perez stated, “Through this investment, we aim to support ventures addressing the urgent climate challenges in sub-Saharan Africa”.
The Equator Africa Fund has previously backed innovative companies like Kenya’s SunCulture and electric mobility firm Roam, which exemplify the potential for sustainable growth in the continent’s climate tech sector.
Nijhad Jamal expressed pride in Proparco’s involvement, emphasising the importance of providing capital and support to startups at crucial stages of their development.
He noted, “We are extremely proud to have Proparco participate in our fund…to provide much-needed capital and active hands-on support”.
This partnership aims to bridge the funding gap and catalyse further investments in climate tech initiatives, unlocking economic potential while addressing environmental challenges.
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Broader context
The investment aligns with a growing trend of increased financial backing for African climate startups. In 2024 alone, these startups have attracted $325 million, reflecting a significant rise from previous years.
However, experts warn that this amount still falls short of the estimated $300 billion needed annually to meet Africa’s climate adaptation and mitigation goals by 2030.
Proparco’s engagement with the Equator Africa Fund highlights a commitment to sustainable development that balances economic growth with environmental stewardship.
As Perez remarked, “We believe these ventures hold promise for a sustainable future”. The fund’s strategic focus on innovative solutions is essential for enhancing energy access and promoting sustainable agricultural practices across the continent.