The African Development Bank Group (AfDB) has recently completed an investment of R2 billion in Sustainable Development Goals-linked bonds (SDG bonds) that were issued by Nedbank South Africa.
This investment will strengthen Nedbank’s capital base and allow it to generate billions for investments in environmentally friendly and climate-sensitive projects such as affordable housing and renewable energy.
Boost for South Africa’s economy
This is a first for Africa. It is expected to boost the South African economy by creating more than 6000 new jobs and an estimated 20 000 SME loans. There will be an additional estimated R4 billion investment in clean energy. This would help South Africa become less dependent on coal-generated power during the next decade.
AfDB’s Director for the Financial Sector, Stefan Nalletamby, said that they are pleased to able help the South African economy.
“We are very pleased to be able to support the South African economy by injecting investment into the private sector through a responsible and trusted partner who is committed to responsible investing. This investment will help accelerate the recovery of the economy after the slowdown caused by the Covid-19 pandemic,” Nalletamby said.
This investment will also aim to help those from disadvantaged backgrounds such as women and those who live in rural communities. In Southern Africa, there are thousands of people who have difficulty banking and would benefit from Nedbank’s low-cost digital financing initiatives. During the next five years, this could lead to an estimated R2 billion in SME loans.
Emphasis on going green
This investment is in line with the African Development Bank’s Ten-Year Strategy (2013-2022). This plan is focused on promoting green and inclusive growth. It is also in keeping with their top five priorities:
(i) Light up and Power Africa,
(ii) Feed Africa
(iii) Industrialize Africa
(iv) Integrate Africa
(v) Improve the lives of African people.
Alexis Knipe
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