Global leaders and representatives of Canada, France, Switzerland, China, South Africa and the United States on Tuesday, questioned the ability of public sectors across the globe to develop proper infrastructure ecosystems.
Financing of infrastructure projects seemed not to be the major obstacle any more, what with much lower cost of borrowing capital.
According to Christian Mumenthaler, Group CEO Swiss Re, the focus should rather be on unlocking funds for innovative infrastructure solutions and catalysing transactions with risk mitigation instruments.
Patrick Dlamini, CEO of the Development Bank of Southern Africa (DBSA), noted the importance of transformation and urban development in Africa.
“It is critical that various governments work together in Africa, agree on regional development projects and ensure that what has been promised, are delivered. There is a big need for political leadership in African countries that create and investor friendly environment,” he said.
Dlamini was confident that South Africa and Africa could attract long-term funding, but “investors require a harmonised economic and political environment”.