Climate finance providers need to adopt a more flexible approach in Africa – working towards a "public good" of investments that benefit all – or risk being part of a longstanding impasse on the continent, says development economist Anzetse Were.
Larger businesses are often seen as the better investment bet. But for more resilient economies, we must focus on helping SMEs to flourish. GSG's Krisztina Tora on lessons from pioneering efforts in Zambia and Ghana.
BRAC International Microfinance – which provides financial services to ‘bottom-of-the-pyramid’ customers, particularly women living in poverty – set to “grow significantly” and expand into three new countries over the next five years.
PLUS: Japan’s banks team up for impact; €32m to support African health entrepreneurs; John Lewis and Hubbub join forces for the circular economy, and more – all the deals you need to know about this month.
STREETS OF AMSTERDAM More than 11,000 refugees access sports and much more in the first club created by KLABU. Now – with the backing of Paris-Saint-Germain FC – the social entrepreneur has his eye on a much bigger goal.
UK’s development finance institution says it will become “global leader” in climate finance in Africa and south Asia with five-year commitment – following news that rich country pledges have not been met.
Mangroves are among the world’s most valuable ecosystems. In Madagascar, Blue Ventures has worked with coastal communities to tend these long-overlooked ‘blue forests’. Will carbon capture be the breakthrough that halts their decline?
PLUS: Africa's first social bonds; first Women's Livelihood Bond matures; $58m fund to help farmers adapt to climate change; Bridges sells majority stake in World of Books, and more – all the deals you need to know about this month.
