The NEPAD Infrastructure Project Preparation Facility (NEPAD IPPF) marked its 20th anniversary during its 40th Oversight Committee Meeting held virtually on October 27, 2025, reflecting on two decades of advancing regional infrastructure across Africa.
The African Development Bank (AfDB) hosted the meeting, bringing together donor representatives, Regional Economic Communities, partner institutions, and implementing agencies. Participants reviewed achievements and outlined plans for the continent’s next phase of infrastructure transformation.
Committee members approved several critical documents, including the 2024 Annual Report, the 2025 Mid Year Report, and a proposed 2026 Work Programme valued at USD 16 million. The funding will support preparation of bankable regional projects under the Programme for Infrastructure Development in Africa (PIDA PAP 2) while strengthening partnerships continent wide.
Since establishment, NEPAD IPPF has backed 113 regional projects spanning energy, transport, information and communications technology (ICT), and water sectors. The facility has invested over USD 124 million in project preparation, helping mobilize more than USD 13 billion in downstream investments.
Mike Salawou, AfDB’s Director for Infrastructure and Urban Development, characterized the anniversary as a moment to celebrate enduring collaboration and renewed ambition. He emphasized the essential contributions of donors and regional partners to the facility’s success.
“At the heart of NEPAD IPPF’s operations are our valued partners, the Regional Economic Communities, Power Pools, Corridor Authorities, and Regional Specialized Agencies,” Salawou stated. He noted that the facility’s evolving priorities align with the G20 Regional Project Preparation Toolkit and the African Union’s infrastructure agenda.
Canada reaffirmed its commitment as a longstanding supporter through Ambassador Ben Marc Diendéré. He highlighted shared objectives for inclusive growth and regional integration driving his country’s continued engagement.
“Canada’s continued engagement in NEPAD IPPF aligns closely with our broader priorities for Africa, particularly our commitment to inclusive economic growth, regional integration, and sustainable development,” Diendéré explained.
Germany’s Birgit Pickel, Director General for Africa at the Federal Ministry for Economic Cooperation and Development (BMZ), praised the facility’s ability to convert concepts into concrete outcomes. She observed that more than half of the 60 plus projects prepared by the fund have reached financial closure, catalyzing over USD 13 billion in investment commitments.
Spain and the United Kingdom also commended the facility’s robust governance and measurable progress toward advancing infrastructure objectives across the continent.
As NEPAD IPPF enters its third decade, leadership emphasized accelerating preparation of transformational, cross border infrastructure projects. The focus remains on connecting African markets, generating employment, and driving sustainable development throughout the region.
The facility’s track record demonstrates growing confidence among international investors in African infrastructure viability when projects receive proper technical and financial preparation support.
