The Italian insurance-financial group SACE and the African Development Bank Group (AfDB) announced a significant collaboration under the “Mattei Plan” on December 5, 2024, during the African Investment Forum in Rabat, Morocco. This agreement is set to bolster economic ties between Italy and Africa, paving the way for transformative projects in critical sectors like education, healthcare, energy, and infrastructure.

The Mattei Plan: A Vision for Enhanced Euro-Africa Cooperation

The Mattei Plan, named after Italian energy magnate Enrico Mattei, aims to create a sustainable partnership between Europe and Africa. Announced by Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni in early 2024, the $6 billion initiative seeks to strengthen economic links, establish Africa as a pivotal energy hub for Europe, and address migration challenges by fostering local economic opportunities.

Key Features of the SACE-AfDB Collaboration

Under this partnership, SACE and the AfDB will synergize their offerings to support high-impact projects across Africa. This includes:

1. Credit Protection and Export Promotion:
   SACE’s financial products, such as the Push Strategy for untied export credit and export credit insurance, will complement AfDB’s financing solutions to de-risk investments. This collaboration ensures that Italian small and medium enterprises (SMEs) gain a foothold in Africa’s growing markets.
2. Business Matching Events:
   Potential African buyers will be connected with Italian businesses through dedicated business-matching events. These events aim to foster direct partnerships in sectors prioritized by the Mattei Plan, including agribusiness, water management, digital infrastructure, and education.
3. Priority Countries and Sectors:
   Initially, the focus will be on countries highlighted by the Mattei Plan, such as Algeria, Morocco, Ethiopia, and Kenya. The sectors include healthcare, energy, infrastructure, and education, all identified as critical for Africa’s sustainable development.

Strengthening Economic Ties

Italy’s renewed interest in Africa reflects its strategic vision to leverage the continent’s potential while addressing shared challenges. Michal Ron, SACE’s Chief International Business Officer, emphasized the importance of this partnership in positioning Italian companies as key players in Africa’s development. Similarly, Hassatou N’Sele, AfDB’s Vice President for Finance, highlighted the untapped opportunities in Africa, underscoring the continent’s low risk compared to perceived challenges.

Why Africa? A Continent of Opportunities

Africa’s rapidly growing population, urbanization, and untapped natural resources make it a key destination for investment. However, challenges such as financing gaps, infrastructural deficits, and economic diversification require innovative solutions. Partnerships like the one between SACE and AfDB can bridge these gaps by mobilizing private capital and fostering cross-border collaborations.

The African Investment Forum: Accelerating Development Goals

The African Investment Forum, where the collaboration was formalized, plays a pivotal role in advancing projects to bankable stages. With a mission aligned with the African Union’s Agenda 2063 and AfDB’s High 5 priorities, the forum is a vital platform for driving sustainable development in Africa. Its emphasis on education, industrialization, and energy aligns perfectly with the objectives of the Mattei Plan.

Potential Impact of the Collaboration

1. Economic Growth:
   By unlocking $6 billion in investments, the collaboration could catalyze economic growth in participating countries, creating jobs and fostering innovation.
2. Energy Security:
   Africa’s renewable energy potential, particularly solar and wind, presents an opportunity for Italy and Europe to diversify energy sources and enhance sustainability.
3. Migration Management:
   By fostering local economic opportunities, the Mattei Plan aims to address the root causes of migration, providing Africans with viable alternatives to seeking opportunities abroad.

Looking Ahead: Challenges and Opportunities

While the collaboration marks a significant milestone, its success depends on effective implementation and addressing challenges such as bureaucratic hurdles, geopolitical risks, and financing constraints. Continuous engagement with stakeholders and transparent governance will be crucial.

Conclusion

The partnership between SACE and the African Development Bank Group under the Mattei Plan signifies a bold step towards a stronger Euro-Africa relationship. By prioritizing sectors critical to Africa’s development, the collaboration not only benefits Italian businesses but also underscores a shared vision of sustainable growth and prosperity. As the world looks to Africa as a beacon of opportunity, initiatives like this are essential in shaping a resilient and inclusive future.

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Photo source: Google

By: Montel Kamau

Serrari Financial Analyst

6th December, 2024