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Swedfund, the Swedish development finance institution, has announced a USD 20 million investment in the Helios Climate, Energy, Adaptation and Resilience (CLEAR) Fund.
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The $20 million commitment is designed to propel climate action and green business growth across Africa. Swedfund plans to finance companies that cut emissions, build resilience, and create sustainable jobs. This strategic investment directly targets Africa’s urgent need for climate-smart solutions and low-carbon development.
Investing in Africa’s Low-Carbon Future
The investment addresses a critical paradox: Africa contributes less than 3% of global emissions yet faces disproportionately severe climate impacts. Continental energy demand is projected to triple by 2050. The Helios CLEAR Fund is designed to channel capital into businesses driving decarbonization. Target sectors include renewable energy, sustainable transport, climate-smart agriculture, resource efficiency, and digital climate solutions.
Bridging the Climate Finance Gap
The move helps tackle a significant funding shortfall.
“Africa currently receives only a small share of global climate investment. Yet the potential for climate-smart business is enormous. Through Helios CLEAR we help build the next generation of African climate-focused businesses,” said Gunilla Nilsson, Investment Director for Energy & Climate at Swedfund.
The fund focuses on scalable enterprises that can demonstrate tangible emissions reductions and enhanced climate adaptation for communities and smallholder farmers.
Driving Impact: Emissions Cuts and Green Jobs
Swedfund’s capital is expected to contribute to significant greenhouse gas reductions while strengthening the adaptive capacity of African economies. This investment underscores Swedfund’s broader strategy to foster a sustainable and inclusive green transition in Africa. It will be leveraging private sector growth to achieve climate and development goals simultaneously.
