The European Investment Bank (EIB Global) has officially announced a significant investment of $75 million in Helios Fund V, which is managed by Helios Investment Partners. This strategic investment aims to bolster the growth of various companies that are pivotal in enhancing digital infrastructure, including data centers, fiber-optic networks, and telecommunications towers.
In addition to infrastructure, the fund will also focus on tech-enabled business services such as cloud computing, health technology, and logistics technology. Furthermore, it will support advancements in financial services and technology, encompassing areas like banking technology, payment solutions, and financial management software. The fund is also committed to investing in companies that contribute to healthcare, education, and training initiatives.
Ambroise Fayolle, Vice-President of the EIB, expressed enthusiasm about the partnership, stating, “We are happy to be partnering with Helios – an important pan-African equity firm that has been operating in Africa for over two decades. Helios has demonstrated strong access to investment opportunities, along with a robust network and local presence. We look forward to supporting them as they invest in market-leading, value-creating, and socially responsible enterprises that will benefit both Africa and the European Union. This initiative is fully aligned with the Global Gateway priorities being implemented by Team Europe.”
This investment is part of a broader trend, as last year EIB Global allocated €232 million to funds operating across Africa, which accounted for 49% of the bank’s total fund investments. This reflects an increasing emphasis on stimulating private capital flows into the continent, highlighting the EIB’s commitment to fostering economic growth and development in Africa.
