Afreximbank courts Jamaica with US$5b financing push

Afreximbank is intensifying its engagement in the Caribbean, with Jamaica as a key focus for expanding trade and investment. The African Export–Import Bank held an inaugural roadshow in Kingston, offering access to a US$5 billion financing facility designed to boost industrialization and cross-border commerce.

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economic emancipation

The bank's strategy builds on Jamaica's accession to Afreximbank’s partnership agreement in July 2025, integrating the country into its growing 'Global Africa' network. Afreximbank views Jamaica as a crucial Caribbean gateway to anchor stronger trade connections between Africa and the region.

Eric Monchu Intong, Afreximbank's group managing director for client relations and regional operations, described the initiative as part of a broader push for "economic emancipation." He stated the bank's goal is to support governments in achieving their development plans by providing financial tools, including loan guarantees, advisory services, and capital-market support. Intong emphasized that Afreximbank aims to complement, not compete with, local banks.

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I cannot lend to the government or to a corporate without working with local banks. We are here to complement what they do.

Afreximbank's offerings extend to specialized platforms like Mansa, a compliance tool that standardizes Know Your Customer (KYC) data. This platform aims to streamline due diligence and reduce transaction friction, particularly for small and medium-sized enterprises. Intong believes such tools can mitigate perceived risks and enhance investor confidence in Caribbean businesses.

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We created a fully funded platform so that SMEs, banks, corporates and state-owned entities can upload their KYC information. Once cleared, partners can transact with greater confidence.

Jamaica's Finance Minister Fayval Williams expressed the government's readiness to deepen engagement, welcoming Afreximbank's expansion. The timing is opportune as Jamaica seeks capital for reconstruction and resilience efforts following Hurricane Melissa, alongside other development projects. Williams lauded Afreximbank's growth over three decades, calling it a "financial force."

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financial force