Malawi is poised to secure over US$100 million in transformative investments following the signing of a three-year Project Facilitation Agreement between NBS Bank plc and the African Export-Import Bank (Afreximbank).
The agreement establishes a Joint Project Preparation Facility (JPPF) that will support the design, preparation, and bankability of priority projects across Malawi’s key sectors, including energy, transport, manufacturing, and tourism.
Under the arrangement, NBS Bank and Afreximbank will jointly fund pre-investment activities such as feasibility studies, technical assessments, and legal advisory services to ensure projects are ready for financing. The move is expected to create a strong pipeline of investment-ready initiatives capable of driving economic transformation.
Speaking during the signing ceremony in Abuja, Nigeria on Thursday, NBS Bank Plc Chief Executive Officer (CEO) Temwani Simwaka expressed optimism about the partnership.
“This agreement reflects our long-term vision to catalyse development in Malawi. By working with Afreximbank, we are enhancing our capacity to deliver high-impact projects that align with national priorities and regional development goals,” said Simwaka.
In her remarks, Afreximbank Intra-African Trade Executive Vice President Kanayo Awani said they aim to support public and private sector growth by preparing and co-financing impactful projects.
“This Framework Agreement is about empowering local institutions like NBS Bank to lead in project origination and development. It is a significant step towards accelerating Malawi’s integration into intra-African trade and unlocking economic potential,” said Awani.
In addition to project financing, Afreximbank will implement a comprehensive training and capacity-building programme for NBS Bank plc staff, including secondments to the Bank’s headquarters in Cairo, Egypt.
