
African Finance Corporation closes $400mln Sharia-financing for infrastructure
African Finance Corporation (AFC) has announced a $400 million Shariah-compliant commodity Murabaha facility to fund African infrastructure, with participation from UAE and Saudi banks.
The Lagos-based entity said the Islamic financing facility had been upsized from $300 million and was oversubscribed by 47%.
The transaction involved 11 Islamic financial institutions including Abu Dhabi Islamic Bank, Al Rajhi Bank and Emirates Islamic.
Emirates NBD Capital, First Abu Dhabi Bank, and SMBC Bank International Plc acted as joint lead arrangers and bookrunners.
Hashtags

Try Our AI Features
Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:
Comments
No comments yet...
Related Articles


Web Release
9 hours ago
- Web Release
The Ministry of Investment for Saudi Arabia shows support for new health and fitness event
The Ministry of Investment for Saudi Arabia and its Sport Sector Team have signed an investment agreement with RX Arabia to support the successful launch of FIBO Arabia in the Kingdom, which will debut at the Riyadh Front Exhibition & Conference Center from 1-3 October 2025. The sports and fitness industry in Saudi Arabia continues to gain considerable momentum. Organised by RX, a global leader in events and exhibitions, and under the theme for a strong and healthy society, FIBO Arabia is already 60% sold out following a successful sales launch at FIBO's flagship tradeshow in Cologne, Germany last month. There, 1,200 exhibitors and partners from 60 nations and 154,748 visitors from 129 countries were welcomed. The launch of FIBO Arabia coincides with the Saudi government's significant support for investing in the country's sports sector as part of the Kingdom's 2030 strategy to diversify its economy. The government aims to increase sports spending by US$22 billion by 2030, encompassing sports clubs, academies, sportswear and equipment, and sports facilities. Vasyl Zhygalo, Managing Director, Middle East and Emerging Markets, RX: 'We are honoured that the Ministry of Investment for Saudi Arabia is supporting the launch of FIBO Arabia. This underscores the importance of health and fitness to the Saudi Arabian government and highlights its investment-friendly attitude towards overseas entrepreneurs and progressive companies that want to invest in their health and fitness sector.' The country's focus on becoming a global sports hub is underscored by the announcement of major events to take place in Saudi Arabia, including the 2034 FIFA World Cup, the 2027 AFC Asian Cup, and the 2029 Asian Winter Games, which will provide a significant boost to its position as a global sports hub. Furthermore, according to Gymnation, which operates a chain of fitness centres in Saudi Arabia and the UAE, the Saudi fitness market is expected to grow at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 9.7% between now and 2032 when the health and fitness market is projected to be worth US$2.28 billion. The growth in the market is largely attributed to government initiatives aimed at enhancing the population's quality of life and promoting physical activity, as well as a rise in health consciousness among the population. Basim K. Ibrahim, Sport Sector Investment Development Director, Ministry of Investment for Saudi Arabia, added: 'FIBO Arabia represents a pivotal platform in advancing Saudi Arabia's Vision 2030 goals by promoting a culture of fitness and wellness while also highlighting the Kingdom's growing potential as a hub for investment within this sector. With increasing emphasis on exercise, sports, and wellbeing across the Kingdom, the event provides a vital opportunity for international and local brands to showcase the latest innovations and technologies in the industry. We look forward to the positive impact FIBO Arabia will have on our communities and the exciting prospects it will unlock for the future.' Professional development will be a key focus of the show, with FIBO Arabia hosting a series of expert-led workshops, seminars, and keynote sessions. These continuing education opportunities are designed to equip attendees with the tools, insights, and certifications needed to thrive in today's rapidly evolving fitness and wellness landscape. From innovation and education to networking and live engagement, FIBO Arabia 2025 promises to be a must-attend event for anyone passionate about shaping the future of health, fitness, and wellness in the Middle East and beyond. For more information on FIBO Arabia, please visit


Arabian Post
14 hours ago
- Arabian Post
African MBAs Surge as US Retains Global Appeal
Applications from African professionals to American MBA programmes are climbing sharply, driven by robust scholarship support, evolving diversity strategies, and a post-pandemic appetite for international career mobility. African candidates are finding new momentum in American business schools thanks to generous funding sources such as the TY Danjuma MBA Scholarship, established in 2011. The fund supports admissions at top‑ranked global institutions, awarding 64 students from nations including Nigeria, Ghana and South Africa as of June 2025. Beyond philanthropy, several US business schools have intensified recruitment of African talent through partnerships with organisations like the Consortium for Graduate Study in Management, dedicated to broadening minority representation. Insiders at leading MBA consultancies confirm growing African interest in US programmes. Scott Edinburgh, an established Boston‑based admissions consultant, attributes this surge to the unparalleled career placement and expansive networking opportunities American MBAs provide. Demand is intensifying despite global shifts in immigration policies. ADVERTISEMENT This trend coincides with a broader graduate‑level movement. Data from AACSB‑accredited schools shows master's level international enrolment, including MBA participation, grew by 30 percent from 2018–19 to 2023–24. Notably, Africa recorded a 53 percent rise in enrolment across master's programmes during that period. Admissions surveys indicate talent from Africa is drawn not just by reputational prestige but also by programmes tailored to their ambitions. Institutions are proactively wooing African candidates with targeted initiatives. Several top MBAs have launched diversity recruitment drives, some in alliance with global equity‑focused organisations, while others offer Africa‑specific case studies and entrepreneurial encouragement. The success of applicants from Africa and underrepresented groups in general is being amplified by post‑affirmative action efforts. Certain programmes have posted increases in minority enrollment, with schools such as UC Berkeley Haas and University of Michigan Ross reporting near‑doubling of underrepresented minority intakes. That momentum extends to African aspirants, especially as institutions emphasise real‑world impact of graduates from diverse backgrounds. However, this enthusiasm coincides with challenges. Admission cohorts prefer candidates in their mid‑20s with approximately five years of work experience, and delaying application could hinder competitiveness. African candidates must act swiftly, aligning with Round 1 application cycles, as advised by admissions consultants like Ibonye, an MTN strategist based in Lagos. Still, visa uncertainties and geopolitical tensions persist. For instance, the US State Department has announced stricter scrutiny of Chinese applicants, though African students have yet to face similar restrictions. In response, universities continue reinforcing support structures, offering legal advice, career services, and alumni networks to ensure smooth integration. Funding remains a pivotal factor. Beyond institutional aid, African-focused scholarships such as the TY Danjuma fund—which covers tuition and living expenses for students admitted to Financial Times–ranked top‑10 schools—play a key role. Prospective students are encouraged to demonstrate financial need and secure early confirmation of funding. There is also mounting emphasis on entrepreneurship. Business schools are increasingly incorporating African‑relevant case studies, and some are including incubator programmes aimed at scaling African SMEs. Experts suggest this strengthens curricula and fosters durable global impact. Taken together, the rise of African applications to American MBA programmes signifies a strategic realignment. With strong financial backing, supportive institutional networks, and a bold recruitment drive, these candidates are well‑positioned to enter competitive cohorts. Meanwhile, schools welcome these professionals for their potential to energise diverse learning environments and contribute new perspectives to global leadership. As the 2025–26 admissions cycle unfolds, Africa is not merely keeping pace—it is reshaping the global MBA landscape, leveraging opportunity and ambition in equal measure.


Web Release
14 hours ago
- Web Release
Nissan achieves 10% growth in Fiscal Year 2024 across the Middle East, driven by SUV demand and iconic nameplates
Nissan has announced a 10% year-on-year growth in the Middle East region for fiscal year 2024 (April 2024 – March 2025). Spanning over 18 markets, including the Gulf states, Saudi Arabia, Levant, Iraq, and CIS, the brand's regional business unit achieved strong results, fueled by increased demand for SUVs and crossovers, which accounted for more than 55% of total sales. SUV sales rose 17% year-on-year, led by the World Premiere of the All-New Nissan Patrol in Abu Dhabi, which saw a 21% increase in sales. Closing FY24, Nissan expanded its SUV range with the Magnite, a compact SUV introduced regionally in Saud Arabia, offering a value-driven option for city living. Saudi Arabia remains Nissan's largest market in the Middle East, contributing over 35% of total regional sales in FY24. The Kingdom continues to be a key pillar in Nissan's regional strategy, with the SUV portfolio including Pathfinder with a 27% increase, and KICKS with a 10% increase, resonating strongly with Saudi consumers. This market remains pivotal to Nissan's growth, especially in the SUV segment, which has seen strong demand in recent years. Thierry Sabbagh, President of Nissan Middle East and INFINITI and Divisional Vice President for KSA, Middle East, and CIS, said 'FY24 marked a strategic turning point for Nissan in the region. Amid shifting market dynamics and heightened consumer expectations, we remained focused on what drives long-term value, strong partnerships, competitive product lineup, and operational agility across our markets. Our performance in Saudi Arabia, our largest market, reflects the strength of our product strategy and the trust we continue to build with customers and dealers alike. As we look ahead, we see clear opportunities for growth, particularly across the SUV segment, supported by a robust FY25 product pipeline and closer collaboration with our trusted partners across the region.' Beyond Saudi Arabia, Gulf markets played a key role in driving regional sales growth. These markets saw a 16% uplift in sales, with Qatar emerging as standout performer with a 32% increase. The UAE registered a 16% increase in sales, while Bahrain posted an 11% rise. The Patrol saw impressive gains in these markets, with sales surging 80% in Qatar and over 30% in both the UAE and Bahrain. Additionally, the X-TRAIL recorded strong double-digit growth across several key markets, including a 32% increase in the UAE, and 25% in Kuwait. Product performance across the region also showcased the strength of Nissan's portfolio. The Pathfinder achieved a remarkable 96% year-on-year increase, driven by robust demand in the UAE. Meanwhile, the KICKS saw a 28% regional increase, with particularly strong performances in the UAE and Bahrain This momentum was further boosted by the February 2025 launch of the all-new KICKS, which featured upgraded features and a refreshed design, reflecting its popularity among younger, tech-savvy urban drivers. Entering FY25, Nissan stands on a solid foundation, having reinforced its product lineup with both iconic models and exciting new introductions. Building on its momentum, FY25 will see the continuation of Nissan's product offensive strategy, with new models and nameplates set to launch across the region. With the recent introduction of the new Magnite and KICKS strengthening Nissan's SUV offering, the brand remains focused on meeting the growing customer demand for SUVs and crossovers. Guided by a commitment to innovation, quality, and customer engagement, Nissan is poised for sustained growth in the evolving Middle East market.