In a compelling episode of the Unlocking Africa Podcast hosted by Terser Adamu, Yewande Adewusi, Chief Operating Officer and Operating Principal at Alitheia Capital, highlighted the transformative power of gender-lens investing and impact investing in driving Africa’s development.
As a trailblazer in the world of private equity in Africa, Alitheia Capital focuses on directing investments into businesses that empower women and serve marginalized communities. The firm’s dedication to aligning financial returns with social progress exemplifies its philosophy of achieving “true profit with a purpose.”
Africa’s Largest Gender-Lens Fund
Yewande shared insights into the Alitheia IDF Fund, the largest gender-lens fund in Africa, managing over $100 million in assets. This fund is dedicated to empowering women-led, women-serving, and gender-diverse enterprises. By addressing systemic gender inequalities, Alitheia Capital fosters inclusive economic growth and uplifts communities across the continent.
The firm’s long-term, patient capital approach ensures sustainable development by prioritizing high-impact businesses with a clear social or environmental mission. Since its founding in 2009, Alitheia Capital has raised over $250 million across multiple funds, supporting sectors such as sustainable energy, financial inclusion, and gender-focused initiatives.
Impact Investing as a Catalyst for Growth
The podcast episode underscored the importance of impact investing in unlocking Africa’s economic potential. Through strategic capital allocation, Alitheia Capital has demonstrated how private equity in Africa can address critical challenges like energy access, financial inclusion, and gender disparities. These investments not only generate financial returns but also create jobs, empower women, and enhance access to essential goods and services for millions.
The firm’s innovative approach to gender-lens investing and its impact-driven ethos have garnered widespread recognition. In 2024, Alitheia Capital and the Alitheia IDF Fund were both shortlisted for prestigious awards at the Krutham Africa Impact Investment Awards, cementing their position as a leader in impact investing and private equity in Africa.
Pioneering Inclusive Growth
Yewande Adewusi’s interview on the Unlocking Africa Podcast spotlights how Alitheia Capital is setting new standards in the investment landscape. By championing gender-lens investing, the firm illustrates how private equity can be a powerful force for sustainable and inclusive growth across Africa.
For more insights, listen to the full podcast episode here: Unlocking Africa Podcast.