The European Investment Bank (EIB) has announced a $75 million which is about Ksh 9.86 billion investment in Helios Investors V, L.P., the world’s largest Africa-focused private investment fund. This funding is set to drive the expansion of digital infrastructure across Africa, supporting data centers, fiber-optic networks, and telecom towers.
This investment aims to strengthen tech-enabled businesses by providing cloud services, health tech solutions, financial services, and logistics technology. It will also promote the growth of innovative firms offering education and training through digital platforms.
EIB Vice President Ambroise Fayolle highlighted the importance of this collaboration during the ongoing Finance in Common Summit in Cape Town, South Africa. “We are pleased to partner with Helios, a firm with a strong track record in Africa. This investment aligns with our mission to support economic development through digital innovation,” said Fayolle.
Helios, an African private equity firm with over two decades of experience, is known for its extensive network and local expertise. The firm has previously invested in major companies like Interswitch and Telkom Kenya, showcasing its ability to nurture leading digital enterprises.
In a recent development, the Kenya Internet Exchange Point (KIXP) established a new presence at IXAfrica Data Centers in Nairobi, creating the only hyperscale data center in East and Central Africa. This expansion is expected to advance the region’s digital infrastructure and attract more international digital service providers.
The EIB’s support comes amid efforts by African governments to build comprehensive digital economies. Key initiatives, including broadband services, cloud capabilities, and e-governance, are gaining momentum. This investment is set to enhance digital connectivity and drive economic growth across the continent.
As Africa continues its digital transformation, partnerships like these signals a promising future for technological innovation and economic development.
