EA News Economic Development

The U.S. International Development Finance Corporation (DFC) has appointed Selam Demissie as its new Regional Managing Director for East Africa, strengthening the agency’s leadership presence in one of Africa’s most dynamic investment regions.

Based in Kenya, Demissie will oversee DFC’s regional portfolio and lead efforts to mobilise private capital into priority sectors including energy, infrastructure, health, agriculture, financial inclusion, and technology. Her role is expected to deepen engagement with governments, investors, and private sector partners across East Africa, where demand for blended finance and impact-driven investment continues to grow.

DFC plays a central role in advancing U.S. development finance objectives globally, using loans, guarantees, equity investments, and political risk insurance to catalyse private sector solutions in emerging markets. In East Africa, the agency has supported projects spanning renewable energy expansion, SME financing, and digital connectivity.

The appointment comes at a time when development finance institutions are placing greater emphasis on crowding in private capital, supporting climate-resilient infrastructure, and strengthening health and economic systems through market-based approaches. Regional leadership is seen as key to accelerating deal flow, improving local partnerships, and aligning investments with national development priorities.

Demissie’s appointment signals DFC’s continued commitment to East Africa as a strategic growth and impact region, particularly as governments pursue ambitious infrastructure, energy transition, and economic diversification agendas.

Source: U.S. International Development Finance Corporation (DFC) press release

29. January 2026/ Urge- DeveWire

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