Professor Benedict Oramah, Chairman of Afreximbank, has just published the second edition of his book, « Foundations and Evolutions of Structured Trade Finance ». The book comes at a pivotal moment when Africa is asserting itself as a major player in world trade. For Oramah, finance is a matter of sovereignty. In it, he argues for structured finance that enables African countries to control their risks and boost South-South trade.
In Abuja, Nigeria, Professor Benedict Oramah, outgoing President of Afreximbank, took advantage of the Bank’s 32nd annual meetings to present a reference work. A sum that is both technical and political. Its title:“ »Foundations and Evolutions of Structured Trade Finance » – Second edition”. A book that traces the contours of a financially sovereign Africa.
Since 1994, Oramah has been arguing for a structured finance capable of bypassing the timidity of traditional markets, by transferring risks to those who can absorb them. This approach has triggered a major transformation: in three decades, South-South trade has risen from 23% to 68% of African trade.
A dynamic reinforced by the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) and the rise in intra-African trade. A turning point that the author deciphers with rigor and vision.
“Another important aspect of the global market dynamism is the increased focus on the intra-African market. Today, averaging 15% to 70%, this share is expected to double within a decade as the intra-African market agreement is fully implemented. This shift raises important questions regarding the importance of traditional financing models for the Southern economy. “For Professor Oramah, African growth requires redesigned financial tools. Imported models often ignore local realities: deficient road infrastructure, outdated regulations, and value chains under construction. He calls for tailor-made solutions adapted to the African landscape.
BENEDICT ORAMAH, President of Afreximbank – Nigeria
“With the rise of manufacturing giants in Africa, the opportunity for the emergence of domestic and regional value chains, as well as the emergence of small and medium-sized enterprises, is beginning to emerge. This new volume captures these and other developments, including changes in regulatory environments and their influences on the driver of export finance in developed countries.” The book was written to ensure that, through innovative financing structures, Africa can maintain access to international financing despite trade between them.
BENNEDICT ORAMAH, President of Afreximbank – Nigeria
The book highlights the emergence of domestic and regional value chains, as well as the rise of African manufacturing giants and bold small and medium-sized enterprises. It also analyzes the evolution of regulatory frameworks and their impact on export financing. A strategic manual for those who will build the African finance of tomorrow.
