Swedfund Invests $20 Million into Helios CLEAR Fund to Back Africa Climate Firms

Sweden’s development finance institution Swedfund will invest $20 million in the Helios Climate, Energy, Adaptation and Resilience (CLEAR) Fund, aiming to support African companies working to curb emissions, strengthen climate resilience and create green jobs.

The Helios-managed fund targets investments in sectors including renewable energy, sustainable transport, climate-smart agriculture, resource efficiency and digital climate solutions, as Africa faces some of the world’s harshest climate impacts despite contributing less than 3% of global carbon emissions.

Africa’s energy demand is expected to triple by 2050, highlighting the need for capital to support low-carbon growth pathways on the continent, Swedfund said.

“By investing in this sector, we can reduce emissions, build resilience and create green jobs, all vital for sustainable growth that benefits more people,” said Gunilla Nilsson, Swedfund’s investment director for energy and climate.

She added that Africa currently receives only a small share of global climate investment despite significant potential for climate-smart businesses.

Swedfund said the investment is expected to contribute to substantial greenhouse gas emission reductions and help businesses and smallholder farmers adapt to climate change, strengthening its broader strategy to drive an inclusive green transition in Africa.