Kessner Capital Management Expands to Abu Dhabi, Secures First African Deal
Abu Dhabi/London - Kessner Capital Management, the alternative investment firm focused on African markets, has announced a strategic expansion into Abu Dhabi through a partnership with a UAE-based family office. This move establishes an operational hub in the Gulf's institutional ecosystem while maintaining primary operations in London.
The firm has simultaneously closed its inaugural transaction: a credit facility extended to Harlequin International Ghana (HIT) to support a procurement contract execution. This deal marks Kessner's first structured transaction since fund inception.
Abu Dhabi: Gateway to African Capital
The Abu Dhabi expansion reflects the emirate's growing role as an international financial platform, driven by infrastructure development and the arrival of global asset managers. The move positions Kessner to tap into Gulf institutional capital increasingly interested in African opportunities.
"Abu Dhabi has become essential for investors looking to engage with Africa," said Bruno-Maurice Monny, co-founder and Managing Partner of Kessner Capital Management.
This strategic positioning makes economic sense. Gulf sovereign wealth funds and family offices possess substantial capital reserves and are actively seeking diversification beyond traditional markets. Africa's infrastructure needs and growth potential align perfectly with this capital's long-term investment horizon.
First Deal Demonstrates Market Approach
The credit facility to Harlequin International Ghana targets a local industrial player providing engineering and technical services to key sectors. This transaction exemplifies Kessner's strategy of providing tailored financing solutions to African companies with solid operational fundamentals.
The deal structure reflects disciplined risk management while addressing Africa's significant capital gap. Rather than simply providing financing, Kessner emphasizes accompanying growth trajectories through governance and transparency requirements.
This approach represents sound business practice. African markets offer compelling returns but require sophisticated risk assessment and local partnerships. Kessner's combination of international capital access and on-ground expertise positions it well to navigate these complexities.
Strategic Positioning
Kessner's dual-hub strategy between London and Abu Dhabi creates operational flexibility while maximizing capital access. London provides regulatory sophistication and international connectivity, while Abu Dhabi offers proximity to Gulf institutional investors and African markets.
The firm's focus on private credit aligns with market needs. Traditional banking often fails to serve mid-market African companies, creating opportunities for alternative lenders with proper risk frameworks.
About Kessner Capital Management: The alternative investment firm focuses exclusively on African markets, combining field-based approach with international and local partnerships to navigate market complexity and seek risk-adjusted returns.