ALGIERS, Algeria, October 1, 2025 – The African Export-Import Bank (Afreximbank) has announced a landmark move to strengthen Malawi’s trade finance capacity by signing a facility agreement with NBS Bank Plc Malawi (NBS Bank).
Through the Afreximbank Trade Facilitation Programme (AFTRAF), the regional bank has allocated a US$100 million line of credit to support the expansion of NBS Bank’s trade finance portfolio and to meet the rising needs of its clients across critical sectors.
The agreement was signed during the recently concluded Intra-African Trade Fair 2025 (IATF2025) by Mr. Haytham El Maayergi, Executive Vice President, Global Trade Bank, Afreximbank, and Mrs. Temwani Simwaka, CEO of NBS Bank.
This allocation, one of the largest AFTRAF facilities ever granted to a Malawian institution, is designed to increase trade volumes while supporting the importation of vital commodities such as fertilisers, medicines, and fuel.
Strengthening Malawi’s Trade Finance Capacity
Speaking at the signing, Mr. El Maayergi noted that the facility demonstrates Afreximbank’s dedication to empowering African financial institutions to respond effectively to national needs.
“This US$100 million facility under the Afreximbank Trade Facilitation Programme reflects our long-term commitment to Malawi and to the NBS/NICO group,” said Mr. El Maayergi.
“It will enable NBS Bank to meet growing trade demands and support the importation of essential commodities that drive economic growth and stability in the country.”
The programme will also provide NBS Bank with a confirmation line from within Africa, a crucial development that enhances counterparties’ confidence in cross-border trade transactions.
The Afreximbank Trade Facilitation Programme
The Afreximbank Trade Facilitation Programme (AFTRAF) is a flagship initiative designed to improve correspondent banking relationships and support critical imports across Africa.
By offering trade confirmation services, guarantees, and irrevocable reimbursement undertakings, AFTRAF mitigates risks for counterparties and ensures smoother settlement of international trade deals.
Through this programme, Afreximbank aims to boost intra-African trade, facilitate the importation of vital goods, and strengthen production value chains by enabling access to equipment and inputs necessary for export growth.
Boosting Intra-African Trade Through Strategic Partnerships
The new facility comes at a pivotal moment for Malawi, where trade volumes are growing, and the need for financial support in key industries has become more urgent.
With the importation of fertilisers critical for food security, pharmaceuticals essential for healthcare, and fuel central to transportation and industry, the AFTRAF facility will have a transformative impact on Malawi’s economy.
Furthermore, the initiative aligns with Afreximbank’s broader mandate to support both intra- and extra-African trade, positioning the institution as a vital partner in Africa’s journey toward self-sufficiency and sustainable economic development.
Milestones at IATF2025
The agreement was formalised during IATF2025, one of Africa’s largest trade platforms. The fair attracted more than 112,000 visitors from 132 countries and featured 2,148 exhibitors.
Over its seven days, IATF2025 recorded US$48.3 billion worth of trade and investment deals, demonstrating Africa’s growing capacity to host major trade and investment events.
By signing this AFTRAF agreement during the trade fair, Afreximbank reaffirmed its role not only as a financial institution but also as a key enabler of continental trade growth and integration under the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA).
A Step Towards a Resilient Future
NBS Bank Malawi, backed by this significant allocation, is now better positioned to deliver enhanced services to its trade clients while contributing to national and regional development goals.
By unlocking access to critical imports, the AFTRAF programme will help stabilise Malawi’s supply chains, create jobs, and support broader economic resilience.
This initiative demonstrates how targeted financial instruments like the Afreximbank Trade Facilitation Programme can translate commitments into tangible action, supporting African economies to thrive in a challenging global trade environment.
Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Afreximbank
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About the Intra-African Trade Fair
The Intra-African Trade Fair (IATF) is organised by Afreximbank, the African Union Commission (AUC), and the AfCFTA Secretariat.
It serves as a premier platform for promoting trade and investment across Africa by facilitating partnerships, knowledge-sharing, and showcasing business opportunities to both African and international investors.
For more information, visit www.IntraAfricanTradeFair.com.
SOURCE: Afreximbank
