ATIDI Hosts Deep Dive Webinar on Development Insurance and Africa’s Risk Mitigation Future
ATIDI has reaffirmed its commitment to fostering economic resilience in Africa by hosting a groundbreaking webinar focused on development insurance. The session gathered media stakeholders from across the continent, offering insights into innovative insurance solutions that drive sustainable development, mitigate risks, and stimulate economic growth.
Development insurance has emerged as a vital tool in attracting Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) by offering risk-mitigation coverage tailored to Africa’s unique economic landscape. Unlike traditional insurance, development insurance addresses risks such as political instability, currency inconvertibility, and default risks, ensuring a secure environment for investors.
ATIDI, formerly known as the African Trade Insurance Agency, exemplifies this approach by providing specialized solutions that enhance investor confidence. With a track record of facilitating over USD 85 billion in trade and investment across Africa, ATIDI plays a crucial role in transforming perceived risks into economic opportunities.
The organization has been instrumental in supporting key projects, including renewable energy initiatives, infrastructure development, and financial stability programs in various African nations.
Founded in 2001 with backing from COMESA and the World Bank, ATIDI has expanded to 24 Member States and 13 institutional shareholders. Despite progress, Africa still faces an investment gap of USD 200 billion required to meet the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) by 2030. ATIDI’s mission is to bridge this gap by providing innovative risk solutions that attract and retain investments.
The agency’s partnerships with global financial institutions such as the African Development Bank, World Bank Group, European Investment Bank, and KfW have strengthened its credibility. ATIDI’s financial stability is reflected in its strong credit ratings, holding an A2/Stable rating from Moody’s and an A rating from Standard & Poor’s.
ATIDI’s 2023-2027 corporate strategy aims to increase its capital to USD 1 billion and expand membership by 25%. The organization has supported multiple flagship projects, including:
– The 20 MW Ituka West Nile solar project in Uganda, promoting renewable energy access.
– Financial stability initiatives in Benin and Togo through loan refinancing.
– Key infrastructure projects in Côte d’Ivoire, Tanzania, and Senegal, improving debt tenures and interest rates.
– The BITA Water Project in Angola, improving access to clean water through blended finance solutions.
– The Regional Liquidity Support Facility (RLSF), enhancing the bankability of renewable energy projects.
Looking ahead, ATIDI will host its 2025 Annual General Meeting and Investor Roundtable in Luanda, Angola, from 18 to 21 June, bringing together key stakeholders to discuss Africa’s investment landscape and risk management strategies.
ATIDI’s leadership emphasized the organization’s pivotal role in Africa’s economic transformation:
Manuel Moses, CEO, ATIDI: “ATIDI is central to Africa’s development agenda. Our risk-mitigating solutions enable transformational projects, benefiting economies and communities. We aim to expand our membership and support the realization of the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA).”
Benjamin Mugisha, Chief Underwriting Officer, ATIDI:“Our focus includes tailored risk solutions for SMEs, crucial drivers of economic growth. By providing these businesses with effective risk management tools, we empower economies and foster trade and investment opportunities.”
Dr. Anthony Ehimare, Chief Risk Officer, ATIDI: “Investing in Africa comes with risks, but ATIDI’s expertise, market insight, and strong partnerships offer investors the confidence needed to engage in the region’s economic growth.”