Development Partners International (DPI), a London-based private equity firm focused on growth opportunities in Africa, has successfully achieved the first close of its fourth fund, African Development Partners IV (ADP IV). The initial closing attracted subscriptions from a mix of Development Finance Institutions and private investors, marking a significant step in DPI’s long-term strategy to leverage technical expertise to address structural challenges on the continent.
ADP IV will build a pan-African portfolio of approximately a dozen mid-to-large cap companies across sectors such as education, health, financial services, industry, digital economy, and fast-moving consumer goods (FMCG). The fund aims to stimulate economic development and job creation in underinvested regions while capitalizing on strong macroeconomic trends, including urbanization, digitalization, and the rising purchasing power of Africa’s expanding middle class.
Proparco has committed $42 million to ADP IV, renewing its support for a long-standing partner and continuing to promote strong environmental and social practices. The investment targets tangible impacts, including job creation and alignment with the 2X Challenge criteria, which support women’s economic empowerment.
Tibor Asboth, Head of Private Equity Division, Africa and Mediterranean at Proparco, highlighted that the participation reflects confidence in DPI’s ability to back high-growth African companies while mobilizing private capital in support of Africa’s middle class.
Beyond its direct contribution, Proparco’s involvement is expected to attract additional private investors, creating a crowding-in effect that scales private sector solutions and promotes sustainable economic growth across the continent.
