Washington D.C., USA — October 19, 2025:
On the sidelines of the World Bank and IMF Annual Meetings concluded recently in Washington D.C., CRDB Bank Group signed three landmark partnership agreements worth over TZS 300 billion (USD 120 million) with leading global development finance institutions — marking a major step in advancing inclusive and sustainable finance across Africa.
The Memorandums of Understanding (MoUs) were formalized during the CRDB Bank Investors and Partners Forum, an exclusive event hosted by the bank to engage global stakeholders on how the private sector can drive sustainable economic growth in the region.
The agreements were signed by CRDB Bank Group CEO and Managing Director, Abdulmajid Nsekela, alongside:
- Lori Kerr, CEO of FinDev Canada
- Roland Siller, CEO of DEG (KfW Group, Germany)
- Thierno-Habib Hann, CEO of Shelter Afrique Development Bank (ShafDB)
The Strategic Partnerships
✅ FinDev Canada – USD 60 Million (TZS 150 Billion)
To expand financing for micro, small, and medium-sized enterprises (MSMEs), with a strong focus on women and youth entrepreneurs and climate-resilient projects.
This sustainability-linked facility is designed to boost access to finance for underserved businesses and strengthen climate adaptation initiatives across Tanzania.
✅ DEG – USD 50 Million (TZS 125 Billion)
To strengthen small and medium enterprises, stimulate innovation and youth employment, and accelerate private sector development — a key driver of Tanzania’s industrialisation and economic growth.
✅ Shelter Afrique Development Bank – USD 10 Million (TZS 25 Billion)
To finance affordable housing projects through CRDB Bank DRC, addressing the region’s housing deficit while promoting social equity and access to safe, climate-resilient homes.
A Shared Vision for a Sustainable Africa
Speaking during the signing ceremony, Mr. Nsekela said the partnerships underscore CRDB Bank’s unwavering commitment to inclusive growth and sustainable development across the continent.
“We believe finance should be a force for good — unlocking potential, creating jobs, and driving long-term value for communities,” he said.
“By joining hands with institutions like FinDev Canada, DEG, and Shelter Afrique, we are accelerating our vision to transform lives and develop economies to their fullest potential. This is more than capital; it is confidence in Africa’s future.”
Thierno-Habib Hann, CEO of Shelter Afrique Development Bank, echoed the sentiment, emphasizing that affordable housing and urban infrastructure are the foundations of inclusive and sustainable economic growth.
“Together, we are not only financing homes — we are financing dignity, opportunity, and the infrastructure of a more resilient Africa,” he said.
He added that the partnership will begin with CRDB Bank’s operations in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) and later expand to Tanzania and Burundi, supported by advisory services to enhance the bank’s housing finance capabilities.
Lori Kerr, CEO of FinDev Canada, said the collaboration marks a key milestone in driving impactful finance in Africa:
“By deepening our collaboration, we’re mobilising capital and investing in the potential of local markets, entrepreneurs, and communities across Sub-Saharan Africa,” she noted.
Regional Collaboration and Recognition
The high-level signing ceremony brought together government leaders and senior officials from Tanzania, Burundi, and the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) — countries where CRDB Bank currently operates.
Distinguished guests included:
- Dr. Natu El-Maamry Mwamba, Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Finance (Tanzania) — Guest of Honour
- Ministers of Finance from Burundi and DRC
- Governors of the Central Banks of Tanzania and Burundi
- Ambassadors of Tanzania and Burundi to the United States
Mr. Nsekela extended his appreciation to the dignitaries for their continued support, noting that CRDB Bank’s 30-year journey has been guided by partnerships, innovation, and a shared vision for Africa’s development.
Driving Regional Impact and Expansion
As CRDB Bank celebrates 30 years of service, these partnerships mark a defining moment in the bank’s mission to become a regional powerhouse in inclusive finance.
By leveraging its strong East African footprint and the strategic reach of its Dubai Representative Office, CRDB Bank continues to position itself as a trusted bridge between global finance and local opportunity.
“This is just the beginning — we are pushing the boundaries of investment and impact across East and Central Africa,” Mr. Nsekela affirmed.
About CRDB Bank
Founded in 1996, CRDB Bank is one of East Africa’s leading financial institutions, with operations in Tanzania, Burundi, and the DRC. The bank offers a wide range of financial services, focusing on innovation, inclusion, and sustainable impact.
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