Kenya hosts US pension funds meet

The Kenya Pension Fund Investment Consortium (KEPFIC) is hosting 30 representatives of major US pension and asset management funds seeking investment opportunities in the country.

The three-day event that kicked off yesterday brings together the consortium --Mobilising Institutional Investors to Develop Africa’s Infrastructure (MiDA), a partnership between the US National Association of Securities Professionals (NASP) and the US Agency for International Development (USAid).

Collectively, these funds manage assets worth Sh100 trillion. The meeting is meant to increase private sector capital injection into infrastructure investments in Sub-Saharan Africa. “Our delegation of US institutional investors comes to Kenya with a keen interest to explore investment opportunities in the region,” said Donna Wilson, President of Smith Graham and Chair of NASP.

“While there is limited exposure in Kenya, there is great opportunity to scale up these investments. We are looking forward to advancing our discussions with our Kenyan counterparts at KEPFIC for mutual support and benefit”.

Over two years, MiDA members have closed on new deals close to Sh80 billion, focusing in Africa and other emerging markets. Local fund managers are optimistic about receiving new financing for large infrastructure projects.

The World Bank is facilitating the forum. The UN Economic Commission for Africa and Stanbic Bank are also providing logistical support to the initiative.