AFRIEF and ADFIMI to Host High-Level Virtual Dialogue on Leveraging Development Finance Institutions for Sustainable Economic Growth in ISDB Member Countries

The Africa Islamic Economic Forum (AFRIEF), in collaboration with the Association of National Development Finance Institutions in Member Countries of the Islamic Development Bank (ADFIMI), is set to host a high-level virtual dialogue titled Leveraging Development Finance Institutions for Sustainable Economic Growth in ISDB Member Countries on March 6, 2025, under the theme: Catalyzing Sustainable Development in Africa: The Strategic Role of Development Finance Institutions in ISDB Member Countries.

This critical forum will bring together policymakers, development finance practitioners, and private-sector leaders to explore how Development Finance Institutions (DFIs) can drive sustainable economic growth across ISDB member countries, particularly in Africa. DFIs are uniquely positioned to mobilize resources, support high-impact projects, and foster innovative financing mechanisms to address critical economic challenges.

Key Objectives of the Event

The virtual dialogue will focus on:

• Clarifying the Role of DFIs: Identifying key sectors such as agriculture, healthcare, education, and renewable energy where DFIs can play a transformative role.
• Showcasing Best Practices: Presenting successful case studies and innovative approaches from DFIs in ISDB member countries.
• Enhancing Collaboration: Strengthening synergies among DFIs, governments, private-sector stakeholders, and philanthropic organizations.
• Innovating Financing Models: Exploring blended finance strategies, Sukuk bonds, and other Islamic finance instruments to accelerate development.
• Promoting Inclusivity: Ensuring financial access for marginalized groups, particularly women and youth.

Expected Outcomes

The event aims to deliver:

• A Collaboration Framework to strengthen partnerships among DFIs, IDB member countries, and other stakeholders.
• Innovative Financing Recommendations to address Africa’s sustainable development challenges.
• Policy Recommendations to enhance the regulatory and operational environment for DFIs.
• Strategic Alliances between DFIs, governments, and the private sector to drive economic transformation.
• An Outcome Document summarizing key insights, recommendations, and a roadmap for strengthening DFIs in ISDB member countries.

Program Highlights

The three-hour event will feature a keynote address by the Secretary-General of ADFIMI, a high-level panel discussion on Strategic Synergies for Sustainable Growth, and focused dialogues on Empowering Women and Youth through DFI Interventions and Green Financing and Climate Resilience.

Why This Event Matters

Africa, home to many ISDB member countries, possesses vast potential but faces critical challenges, including inadequate infrastructure, underdeveloped industries, and limited access to finance for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs). This event will provide a strategic platform to drive solutions that harness the full potential of DFIs to catalyze sustainable economic growth.

Registration & Participation

This virtual dialogue is open to policymakers, financial institutions, business leaders, and development experts interested in shaping the future of development financing in ISDB member countries. Interested participants can register here.

For media inquiries, partnerships, or further information, please contact: Hussain Yaqub, Event Coordinator, info@afrief.org