Kessner Capital Launches Private Credit Fund to Boost African Investment
Kessner Capital Management launches groundbreaking private credit fund targeting Africa's $331 billion SME financing gap. The initiative, led by seasoned financial experts, aims to transform investment access while delivering both returns and social impact across the continent.
Kessner Capital's leadership team announces new African private credit fund initiative
Kessner Capital Launches Private Credit Fund to Boost African Investment
A significant new investment vehicle has emerged on the African continent as Kessner Capital Management (KCM) officially launches its first private credit fund, operational since March 2024. The initiative aims to address the critical funding gap for SMEs and support high-impact projects across Africa.
Revolutionising Alternative Capital in Africa
Led by an experienced Pan-African team with international finance credentials, Kessner Capital positions itself as a strategic alternative to traditional banks, which often hesitate to lend to small and medium enterprises. The fund's approach focuses on direct lending to profitable companies in key growth sectors including agribusiness, renewable energy, infrastructure, technology, and financial services.
"We're not just providing capital; we're building partnerships for sustainable growth," explain co-founders Bruno-Maurice Monny and Benny Osei. "Our role extends beyond lending to being a long-term strategic partner, establishing governance, transparency, and measurable impact."
Addressing a Substantial Market Gap
The opportunity is substantial: World Bank estimates indicate an annual SME financing deficit in Africa exceeding US$331 billion. This comes as the continent's growth is projected to reach 5.7% in 2025, according to recent economic forecasts.
Kessner's offering includes flexible loans in both USD and local currencies, with terms ranging from one month to three years. Their risk assessment framework encompasses macroeconomic, political, and operational factors, supported by a robust network across West, East, and Southern Africa.
Leadership and Strategic Support
The fund benefits from backing by Swiss private holding NFG SA and international structured finance specialists, while maintaining independent investment decision-making processes. The leadership team combines complementary expertise:
- Bruno-Maurice Monny: Former J.P. Morgan and BNP Paribas executive, specialising in structured credit across African markets
- Benny Osei: Previously with Leifbridge Capital and Bloomberg, focusing on emerging markets and multi-asset investments
Their advisory board includes notable figures such as former French Defense Minister Charles Millon, international investor Colin Rezek, development finance advisor Christiane de Livonnière, and private equity veteran Frédéric Le Bourgeois.
Transforming African Capital Access
The initiative represents a bold step toward repositioning Africa in global finance, demonstrating that profitable investment and social impact can coexist. "Kessner Capital marks a new chapter in Africa's access to structured finance," state the founders.
Contact:
Email: info@kessner.co.uk
Website: www.kessner.co.uk
Jack Thompson
Reporter based in Sydney, Jack covers climate issues, migration policies, and Australia's Indo-Pacific strategy.