Sustainability Banking in Africa

This report assesses the role of the finance sector in Africa and the initiatives that help it develop sustainably. The report addresses finance sector institutions and policy makers as well as a broader international audience interested in the challenges and distinct opportunities of investing in Africa.

The report aims to:

• Highlight the challenges and opportunities that exist in the African finance sector;
• Analyze the role of the finance sector in promoting sustainability in Africa;
• Create a basis for discussion and action;
• Highlight a series of current product, process and market innovations on sustainability practice in the African finance sector;
• Draw out development lessons for developing future innovative tools and approaches;
• Provide a platform to organizations to develop mechanisms to ensure the development of sustainability banking in Africa.

The report concludes that financial institutions can play an active role in promoting sustainable banking practices in Africa and identifies areas for future action:

• Carry out research and gather informed data in the African context;
• Create a distinct potential for innovation and for rapid progress;
• Establish a dynamic business case for sustainability banking;
• Embed sound corporate governance practices;
• Adopt sustainability as a core determinant of international competitiveness;
• Make use of multi stakeholder partnership to address sustainability finance;
• Make the role of public policy and donors pro-active.