Raja Al Mazrouei, the CEO of Etihad Credit Insurance, highlighted the increasing interest of Emirati investors in African markets. She emphasized the crucial role of Etihad Credit Insurance in facilitating this trend by offering export credit insurance, investment guarantees, and project financing support.
This statement was made during her participation in a panel discussion titled “Impact Capital for Financing Africa’s Future,” which was part of the “Africa Debate 2025” forum held in Dubai. The event was organized by the Ministry of Foreign Trade in collaboration with Invest Africa, a trade network aimed at promoting trade and investment in Africa. She underscored that both the UAE and Africa are shaping a new era of global competitiveness based on sustainable and diversified investment focused on positive impact.
The session addressed the impact capital initiative, which signifies a strategic shift in the relationship between the UAE and Africa. Traditional trade patterns and capital flows are evolving toward a more diverse, flexible, and impactful investment model. This approach opens new avenues for sustainable growth, enhances global competitiveness, and establishes an active investment cycle that generates new job opportunities and supports technology transfer.
The dialogue explored how Etihad Credit Insurance supports this momentum by playing a vital role as the federal export credit agency of the UAE. It helps mitigate risks and encourages greater capital participation by providing credit guarantees, risk mitigation mechanisms, and other financial solutions. This support is essential for large-scale projects requiring substantial initial capital and long-term commitments, particularly in renewable energy, infrastructure, and digital transformation fields.
During the discussion, it was confirmed that the company is currently active in 30 African countries, assisting small and medium-sized Emirati enterprises in integrating into continental supply chains. Additionally, it supports sovereign infrastructure projects and has successfully closed deals in strategic sectors such as healthcare, hospital construction, medical service fleets, emergency infrastructure, fire prevention, technology and data, and green energy, including solar and wind power projects. The company implements these initiatives in close collaboration with export credit agencies, development finance institutions, and private markets to develop innovative and collaborative solutions.
The forum also showcased key initiatives led by the UAE to drive sustainable development in Africa, spotlighting the “Green Investment Initiative for Africa.” Launched during the African Climate Summit held in Nairobi in September 2023, this initiative represents a multilateral partnership adopting an innovative approach to climate finance, combining resources, expertise, and knowledge of local economic environments among its partners.
In conclusion, the session highlighted Etihad Credit Insurance’s proactive role in supporting the UAE’s global clean energy agenda. During the COP28 conference, the UAE pledged $4.5 billion to expedite clean energy projects across Africa. In line with this commitment, Etihad Credit Insurance allocated $500 million in credit insurance coverage to reduce risks and attract private capital, solidifying its dedication to achieving sustainable development worldwide.
The forum brought together global companies, public and private investment bodies, thought leaders, and policymakers in discussions aimed at enhancing trade and investment relations between the UAE and Africa. The UAE’s hosting of this second edition reflects the growing economic and trade ties with African nations, as it is the largest investor in Africa among Gulf Cooperation Council countries. Furthermore, Dubai will host the 2024 edition of the forum after ten successful iterations held in London.