Kessner Capital launches private credit fund to boost investment in Africa

A new investment structure has just been launched on the African continent. Kessner Capital Management (KCM) has formalized the launch of its first private credit fund , already operational since March 2024. The objective: to fill part of the financing gap for SMEs and support high-impact projects in Africa.

A new player in the alternative capital market

Led by a pan-African team with backgrounds in international finance, Kessner Capital positions itself as an alternative to traditional banks, which are often reluctant to lend to small and medium-sized businesses. Its strategy is based on direct lending to profitable companies operating in growth sectors such as agribusiness, renewable energy, infrastructure, technology, and financial services.

“ We don’t just lend money; we partner with businesses to build sustainable growth ,” explain co-founders Bruno-Maurice Monny and Benny Osei. “ Our role is to act as a long-term strategic partner, establishing governance, transparency, and impact. ”

A gigantic market still underfunded

The potential is immense: the World Bank estimates the annual financing gap for African SMEs at more than $331 billion . This is despite the continent's expected growth of 5.7% in 2025 .

Kessner aims to meet this demand by offering flexible loans, in dollars or local currencies, with terms ranging from one month to three years. Its approach is based on rigorous risk analysis—macroeconomic, political, and operational—and a strong network spanning West, East, and Southern Africa.

“ As banks reduce their exposure, demand is exploding ,” says Benny Osei. “ This is the time to bring structured, patient, and locally anchored capital to support the continent’s transformation. ”

Strong partners, but a claimed independence

The fund is supported by NFG SA, a private Swiss holding company, and international partners specializing in structured finance and private equity. However, its managers insist that investment decisions will remain independent, from the selection of projects to the execution of financing.

An experienced team and strong support

At the helm, two complementary profiles:

• Bruno-Maurice Monny , ex-JP Morgan and BNP Paribas, expert in structured credit on African markets.

• Benny Osei , formerly of Leifbridge Capital and Bloomberg, specializing in emerging markets and multi-asset investments.

They can count on a prestigious advisory board, which includes former French Defense Minister Charles Millon , international investor Colin Rezek , development finance advisor Christiane de Livonnière , and Frédéric Le Bourgeois , a former head of private equity and infrastructure funds.

Reinventing access to capital in Africa

Behind this project, there is a clear ambition: to reposition Africa in global finance, by proving that profitable investment and social impact can go hand in hand.

“ Kessner Capital marks the beginning of a new chapter in Africa’s access to structured finance ,” say its founders.

Contact :
info@kessner.co.uk
www.kessner.co.uk