The African Development Bank Group (AfDB) has identified key strategies to mobilise large-scale development financing for North Africa during a regional seminar and national dialogue held in Tunis. The discussions focused on helping countries strengthen domestic resource mobilisation, attract private investment, and build more resilient financial systems to support long-term economic transformation.
The event brought together government representatives, development partners, private sector stakeholders, and civil society to explore practical solutions for financing development amid tightening global financial conditions, rising capital costs, and reduced concessional funding. It also sought to promote Tunisia’s investment priorities and strengthen regional cooperation on sustainable financing.
Participants emphasized that North Africa has significant financial potential, including strong domestic savings, institutional investors, sovereign wealth funds, an active private sector, and a large diaspora. However, these resources remain underutilized due to limited financial intermediation, underdeveloped capital markets, and a shortage of long-term financing instruments.
The dialogue highlighted three priority areas for improving development finance. These include expanding domestic revenue through tax reforms and digital public administration, increasing private sector participation through public-private partnerships and innovative financing mechanisms, and strengthening financial markets by promoting green finance, Islamic finance, and greater institutional investment.
The African Development Bank noted that stronger regional cooperation, knowledge sharing, and innovative financial solutions will be essential for accelerating economic transformation and building more inclusive and resilient economies across North Africa. The Bank reaffirmed its commitment to supporting member countries through financing, technical expertise, and tailored financial instruments to help unlock sustainable development opportunities.
