Could you provide an overview of DFC’s role on the continent and how this has evolved in recent years?

DFC is proud of its significant portfolio in Africa. The region is central to DFC’s mission to foster economic development and advance US foreign policy and national security interests. Sub-Saharan Africa represents the largest region within DFC's portfolio, with around US$13 billion invested across 300 projects in 26 countries. Since the launch of DFC in January 2020, the rapid growth of the agency’s Africa portfolio has been driven by DFC’s expanded mandate. DFC has the ability to invest equity and to support earlier stage opportunity through project development grants, and an expanded mandate enables greater investment that meets US interests. 

In addition, DFC has been growing its regional presence in Africa, most recently opening a new office in Abidjan in December 2024. 
DFC’s investments in Africa represent an opportunity to proactively make America safer by strengthening supply chains and promoting economic stabilization across the continent; make America stronger by countering strategic competitors and advancing US policy priorities; and make America more prosperous by opening new markets and business opportunities to US companies and securing critical mineral supply chains. 

What are some of DFC’s flagship projects in Africa, and how have they contributed to the development of critical supply chains outside of China? 

DFC’s investment portfolio and interest in Africa extends across sectors including critical minerals, transport and other infrastructure, agriculture, energy and health.  DFC recognizes the importance of creating more secure supply chains to reduce risks to global markets for the materials needed to deploy new technology and drive economic growth. DFC’s investments have emphasized projects that can support African countries to play an important role in this space.  Examples of these projects include the Lobito Atlantic Railway, which will support rehabilitation and operations of a 1,300 km rail line that will provide a market-based, independent solution to reduce costs and time-to-market for African minerals.  We also support Pensana to conduct feasibility studies to advance development of a rare earth elements mine and refining facility in Angola, and Millennial Potash to complete a feasibility study for the Banio Potash Project in Gabon.   We are also involved in political risk insurance to support the construction of a mineral and specialized bulk terminal port in Gabonese coastal city of Owendo to support exports of manganese.  

Which African countries are most strategic for the supply of critical minerals? And which specific minerals are you prioritizing? 

DFC recognizes the significant role that Africa has to play in expanding and diversifying supply chains for critical minerals and the opportunity this market holds for the countries in the region.  DFC is actively looking for opportunities to invest in countries that create a positive environment for the private sector to develop strong projects that deliver benefits for global supply chains and communities where they’re based.  DFC will look at projects for minerals that align with critical needs in the US and other markets to deploy advanced technologies, meet growing demand for energy, and support other pillars of future economic growth.  

How does DFC’s approach to risk underwriting and political risk insurance help catalyze investment and crowd in co-financiers? 

DFC’s rigorous risk underwriting and political risk insurance reduce uncertainties that deter private investment in emerging markets. By mitigating risks such as expropriation, currency inconvertibility, and political violence, financiers have the confidence to engage catalyzing private capital and mobilizing additional resources for sustainable development.  

How has your global impact expanded in the last year, and what are your priorities going into 2025? 

In 2024, DFC advanced strategic partnerships to address urgent global challenges, from energy transition to supply chain resilience. Going into FY25, priorities include scaling investments in technology, deepening engagement across the region, and accelerating initiatives that drive enduring economic growth while advancing US foreign policy and national security objectives.  

Do you have a final message? 

DFC is open for business in eligible countries and actively seeking collaboration with both private sector partners and host country governments. In alignment with administration priorities, DFC is committed to advancing initiatives that reinforce US leadership in critical minerals development. Our goal is to work together to build and strengthen resilient critical minerals supply chains that provide secure returns for investors, advance US strategic interests, and promote long term economic growth, stability and prosperity for host nations.