ALGIERS, Algeria — October 1, 2025 – The African Export-Import Bank (Afreximbank) has signed a US$100 million Afreximbank Trade Facilitation Programme (AFTRAF) facility agreement with NBS Bank Plc Malawi, aimed at boosting the bank’s trade finance portfolio and supporting Malawi’s import needs.
The agreement was signed on the sidelines of the Intra-African Trade Fair (IATF2025) by Haytham El Maayergi, Executive Vice President, Global Trade Bank, Afreximbank, and Temwani Simwaka, CEO of NBS Bank.
Supporting Essential Imports
The facility is designed to strengthen Malawi’s capacity to finance critical imports such as fertiliser, medicines, and fuel, while enabling NBS Bank to expand its trade volumes.
Mr. El Maayergi described the agreement as one of the largest AFTRAF facilities for a bank in Malawi, underscoring Afreximbank’s commitment to empowering African financial institutions:
“This US$100 million facility demonstrates Afreximbank’s commitment to supporting Malawi’s trade aspirations. It also reflects the strong relationship between Afreximbank and the NBS/NICO group,” he said.
Boosting Trade Finance in Africa
The AFTRAF programme provides trade confirmation services, guarantees, and reimbursement undertakings, aimed at strengthening correspondent banking relationships and reducing risks in cross-border transactions.
According to Afreximbank, AFTRAF enhances counterpart confidence, supports intra-African trade, and facilitates the financing of essential commodities and equipment needed for export-oriented production.
IATF2025 in Context
The announcement took place during the Intra-African Trade Fair 2025, which concluded on September 10 in Algiers. The fair attracted 112,000 visitors from 132 countries, with 2,148 exhibitors and recorded US$48.3 billion in trade and investment deals.
About the IATF
The Intra-African Trade Fair is organized by Afreximbank, the African Union Commission (AUC), and the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) Secretariat. It serves as a platform for businesses, governments, and investors to exchange trade and market information, explore opportunities, and strengthen the implementation of the AfCFTA.
Source: Afreximbank (via APO Group)
