CFA Institute Calls for Private Capital to Unlock Africa Potential
TLDR
- CFA Institute urges the mobilization of private capital to drive capital market development in sub-Saharan Africa
- The report, which spans 11 African economies, gives special focus to Côte d'Ivoire and Senegal
- It warns that while growth is ongoing, these markets must now move toward more inclusive and long-term financing ecosystems
On the sidelines of the African Development Bank’s Annual Meetings, the CFA Institute unveiled a new report on May 30th in Abidjan, urging the mobilization of private capital, especially private equity and private debt, to drive capital market development in sub-Saharan Africa.
The report, which spans 11 African economies, gives special focus to Côte d'Ivoire and Senegal, citing their strategic role in WAEMU’s financial future. It warns that while growth is ongoing, these markets must now move toward more inclusive and long-term financing ecosystems, supported by structural reforms.
The study emphasizes the need for a clear and stable regulatory framework, the lack of which continues to deter private investors. In West Africa, fragmented rules, weak investment products, and low institutional participation remain major barriers despite the presence of strong banking systems and an entrepreneurial youth base.
Daba is Africa's leading investment platform for private and public markets. Download here
Key Takeaways
The CFA Institute’s message is clear: West Africa cannot afford a delay in reforming its capital market structures. The region has the fundamentals—ranging from infrastructure ambitions to a rising investor class—but lacks coherence in regulatory policy and capital formation mechanisms. To address this, the report proposes public-private partnerships, incentives to build local financial talent, and the creation of local investment funds to drive growth. The goal is to transform West Africa into a financial innovation hub, where scalable models can be tested and replicated continent-wide. If implemented, these reforms could position West Africa as a self-reliant, resilient engine for private capital deployment, linking domestic savings to productive investment and strengthening the financial foundations of Africa’s long-term development.
Think someone else should see this?
To invest in this opportunity and other opportunities across Africa
Download the daba finance app on your mobile through
Take action.
Download app
Start investing in Africa’s best opportunities, including stocks, bonds, startups, venture funds, and more.
Partner with us
Unlock exciting business opportunities and growth potential.
Join Daba
Become a part of our vibrant community and enjoy exclusive benefits.
Contact us
Reach out to us for inquiries, support, or collaboration.