Regional Infrastructure Finance Facility Project for Eastern and Southern Africa

By Global Infrastructure Sherpa · Jan 9, 2026

Financing Grid announced Kenya, Africa Jan 9, 2026

USD425M

Deal Value

Project

The Regional Infrastructure Finance Facility Project for Eastern and Southern Africa (RIFF) is a $425 million World Bank Group IDA–financed Investment Project Financing (IPF) operation, implemented by the Eastern and Southern African Trade and Development Bank (TDB) in partnership with the COMESA Secretariat.

Deal Analysis

The Regional Infrastructure Finance Facility Project for Eastern and Southern Africa (RIFF) is a significant undertaking aimed at bolstering infrastructure development in the region. This $425 million financing project, spearheaded by the World Bank Group through IDA financing, will be implemented by the Eastern and Southern African Trade and Development Bank (TDB) in partnership with the COMESA Secretariat. The project focuses on grid infrastructure, a critical component for regional economic growth and integration. The announcement date of January 9, 2026, suggests this is a forward-looking initiative, likely involving substantial planning and preparation phases. The involvement of the World Bank Group, TDB, and COMESA Secretariat underscores the collaborative nature of this project and its potential for widespread impact. The World Bank's role as a lender provides crucial financial backing, while TDB's implementation expertise and COMESA's regional coordination capabilities are essential for effective execution. This project is notable for its focus on regional integration, addressing the infrastructure deficit in Eastern and Southern Africa, and leveraging the strengths of multiple development partners. The financing will likely catalyze further investment in the region's infrastructure sector, promoting economic growth and improved connectivity.

A $425 million financing project focused on grid infrastructure.
Implemented by the Eastern and Southern African Trade and Development Bank (TDB) in partnership with the COMESA Secretariat.
Financed by the World Bank Group through IDA.
Aims to address the infrastructure deficit and promote regional economic growth.

Market Context: Eastern and Southern Africa face significant infrastructure deficits, particularly in grid connectivity, hindering economic growth and regional trade. This project targets this critical need, aligning with broader efforts to improve infrastructure and promote sustainable development in the region.

Source Intelligence

KEY DETAILS

Achievements to date: over 17,000 jobs have been created, and over $5 million in government revenues. 3.02 million people gained new or improved electricity service — 52% women, or 1.56 million 260,912 households connected via off-grid solutions; 16% female-headed households 62.8% of households report that improved lighting helps children study; average study time increased by 1.66 hours/day 88.3% of respondents note reduced workload for women, less time spent fetching fuel or cooking with kerosene/wood 2.2 million kerosene lanterns replaced 510,787 tons of CO₂ emissions avoided over the lifetime of solar products Only 7.3% of households still use kerosene; 71.5% report improved indoor air quality

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Deal Size

the Facility total value of $425 million covers TDB and COMESA Member countries

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Location

The Regional Infrastructure Finance Facility Project for Eastern and Southern Africa (RIFF) Forum held in Kenya

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Announcement

Regional Infrastructure Finance Facility Project for Eastern and Southern Africa (RIFF) Forum Video January 9, 2026

PARTIES MENTIONED IN SOURCE

World Bank Group lender

"RIFF is a flagship World Bank Group IDA–financed Investment Project Financing (IPF) operation"