At the Africa Debate 2025 held in London, global investors, policymakers, and business leaders emphasized the need for sustained, impact-oriented investment to accelerate Africa's economic development. Organized by Invest Africa, the conference brought together over 700 participants from private equity, government, finance, energy, tech, and infrastructure sectors.
With the theme "Harnessing Natural Capital for Growth," discussions highlighted the transformation of Plantations et Huileries du Congo (PHC) in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) as a model of inclusive and sustainable investment.
Under new ownership and financial support, PHC has evolved from a palm oil producer into a catalyst for rural development—providing healthcare through four hospitals, education to over 7,000 pupils via 40 schools, and clean water through 72 boreholes in surrounding communities.
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The company actively cultivates 25,000 hectares out of its 107,000-hectare land concession, with 30% preserved for conservation and 40% used by local farmers—underscoring a strong commitment to zero deforestation and sustainable growth.
The investment firm behind PHC has anchored $800 million in capital and facilitated $3.5 billion in investments across Africa, backing 15 first-time private equity funds and directly investing in 20 companies in sectors like fintech, healthcare, infrastructure, and digital innovation.
Despite economic challenges, confidence in Nigeria—the firm's core market—remains high. It argues the country's GDP is undervalued, suggesting it should exceed $1.5 trillion due to significant activity in informal sectors, fintech, and creative industries like Afrobeats and Nollywood. Portfolio companies continue to thrive, driven by high informal income levels, diaspora remittances, and strong consumer demand.
The London forum concluded with a united call for patient capital, local partnerships, and impact-driven strategies as key drivers of Africa's inclusive, long-term economic transformation.
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