Kessner Capital Launches Private Credit Fund to Boost African Investment
Kessner Capital Management launches groundbreaking private credit fund targeting Africa's $331 billion SME financing gap. The initiative combines commercial returns with social impact, led by seasoned international finance experts committed to transforming access to capital across the continent.
Kessner Capital's leadership team launches transformative private credit fund for African markets
Kessner Capital Launches Private Credit Fund to Boost African Investment
In a significant move for African private markets, Kessner Capital Management (KCM) has launched its inaugural private credit fund, operational since March 2024. The fund aims to address the critical financing gap for SMEs and support high-impact projects across the continent, marking a progressive step in democratising access to capital.
Reimagining Alternative Capital for Africa
Led by a pan-African team with international finance expertise, Kessner Capital positions itself as a progressive alternative to traditional banking institutions, which have historically been hesitant to extend credit to small and medium enterprises. The fund's strategy focuses on direct lending to profitable companies in transformative sectors including agribusiness, renewable energy, infrastructure, technology, and financial services.
"We're not merely providing capital; we're forging partnerships to build sustainable growth," explain co-founders Bruno-Maurice Monny and Benny Osei. "Our mission extends beyond lending to establishing long-term strategic partnerships founded on principles of governance, transparency, and measurable impact."
Addressing a Critical Market Gap
The opportunity is substantial: World Bank data indicates an annual SME financing deficit in Africa exceeding $331 billion, even as the continent's growth trajectory points to 5.7% expansion in 2025. This stark contrast between growth potential and capital access represents both a challenge and an opportunity.
Progressive Financing Approach
Kessner's innovative approach includes flexible lending solutions in both dollars and local currencies, with terms ranging from one month to three years. The fund employs a comprehensive risk assessment framework encompassing macroeconomic, political, and operational factors, supported by a robust network across West, East, and Southern Africa.
Leadership and Advisory Excellence
The fund brings together complementary expertise through its leadership:
- Bruno-Maurice Monny: Former J.P. Morgan and BNP Paribas executive, specialising in African structured credit
- Benny Osei: Previously with Leifbridge Capital and Bloomberg, emerging markets specialist
The advisory board includes distinguished figures such as former French Defense Minister Charles Millon, international investor Colin Rezek, development finance advisor Christiane de Livonnière, and private equity veteran Frédéric Le Bourgeois.
A Vision for Inclusive Finance
"Kessner Capital represents more than a fund launch - it's a paradigm shift in how Africa accesses structured finance," assert the founders. "We're demonstrating that commercial returns and social impact can coexist while advancing economic inclusion."
For more information:
Email: info@kessner.co.uk
Website: www.kessner.co.uk
Thomas Reynolds
Correspondent for a London daily, specialist in British foreign policy and transatlantic issues.