Swedfund invests US$ 20m to drive Africa’s climate action and green business growth
Swedfund’s investment is expected to contribute to significant cuts in greenhouse gas emissions and to help businesses and small farmers adapt to a changing climate. The investment strengthens Swedfund’s work to drive a sustainable and inclusive green transition in Africa.
Swedfund is investing USD 20 million in the Helios Climate, Energy, Adaptation and Resilience (CLEAR) Fund to support efforts that limit climate change and help communities adapt to its effects. The fund backs African companies that reduce emissions, strengthen resilience, and create green jobs.
Africa contributes less than three percent of global carbon emissions but faces some of the most severe climate impacts.
At the same time, the continent’s energy demand is expected to triple by 2050. Swedfund’s investment in Helios CLEAR will help channel capital to businesses that drive low-carbon growth in areas such as renewable energy, sustainable transportation, climate-smart farming, efficient resource use, and digital climate solutions.
“By investing in this sector, we can reduce emissions, build resilience, and create green jobs, all vital for sustainable growth that benefits more people. Africa currently receives only a small share of global climate investment, yet the potential for climate-smart business is enormous.
Through Helios CLEAR, we help build the next generation of African climate-focused businesses,” says Gunilla Nilsson, Investment Director for Energy & Climate at Swedfund.
Steve UMIDHA is a Kenyan-born financial journalist with over 15 years of work experience in journalism and communication. He specialises in finance and economics reporting as well as on the causes, impacts, and solutions of global warming (Climate Change).
He's the Managing Editor & Founder of Financial Fortune Media. Steve has previously worked with the bird story agency, Mediamax Networks LTD, Standard Media Group, Business Journal Africa, CNBC Africa and Financial Post among other news outlets.