In October 2026, Conakry will host a major investment forum organized by the London-based firm DMA Invest. The event aims to connect over 1,000 participants with a $2 billion project pipeline across West and Central Africa.
The Simandou iron-ore project as a Guinean economic anchor
The decision to hold the forum in Guinea reflects a broader regional trend of African nations leveraging high-value mineral assets to attract foreign direct investment... This move follows a pattern seen in previous years where the forum's location was determined by formal government invitations, such as the third edition held in London.
The Simandou iron-ore project is expected to serve as a flagship asset for the Guinean economy and a primary driver for the 2026 event. While mining is the headline sector, the forum intends to diversify interest into energy, water, agriculture, and digital services to ensure long-term development beyond raw material extraction.
A $2 billion pipeline vetted by UK Export Finance
A project pipeline valued at nearly $2 billion will be showcased to investors during the three-day event in Conakry . To ensure these projects are more than mere concepts, DMA Invest utilizes a multi-layered matchmaking process that aligns with the national strategic priorities of participating African governments.
UK institutions, including UK Export Finance and British International Investment, are expected to play a role in shaping the forum's agenda. According to the organizers, these partnerships are designed to provide the financial and technical support necessary to move projects from iitial introductions to signed, binding contracts.
DMA Invest’s $15 billion cumulative claim vs. direct funding
DMA Invest, a London-based advisory firm, acts as a facilitator rather than a direct lender for the projects presented. The firm's role is centered on matchmaking and deal preparation through dedicated "Deal Rooms" where project sponsors meet directly with potential lenders.
As the report states, DMA Invest claims to have contributed more than $15 billion to investment flows since 2007. However,it is important to note that this figure represents cumulative activity across all fronts and does not necessarily signify confirmed loans or direct capital injections provided by the firm itself.
Will the Alliance of Sahel States observers move from spectators to investors?
Several critical details remain unverified in the current report regarding the actual conversion of interest into capital. While the $2 billion pipeline is a significant estimate, the source does not provide a mechanism for how these figures will be audited or verified by third parties.
The participation of the Alliance of Sahel States as obserrvers also raises questions about the depth of their involvement. While they will have access to matchmaking mechanisms, it remains unclear whether their presence will lead to substantive private-sector links or if they will remain primarily as observers of the UK-Africa economic corridor.
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