XSML Capital, a provider of growth capital to SMEs in Central and Eastern Africa, has launched its fourth fund, African Rivers Fund IV (ARF IV), with a first close of $98.7m. 

“Despite the tough climate for fundraising last year and particularly in Africa, the first close of ARF IV exceeded the size of our previous fund,” said Barthout van Slingelandt, managing partner of XSML Capital. 

“This is a clear sign of confidence of our investors in our investment approach and performance. They share our excitement about the opportunities to invest in talented entrepreneurs in some of Africa’s frontier markets.”

The new funding allows XSML to double its investments and impact over the coming years and follow investees into new markets like Zambia.

Existing investors in previous funds reinvested and increased their commitment with some doubling their exposure. 

The investors include British International Investment, the UK’s development finance institution and impact investor, FMO, the Dutch entrepreneurial development Bank, the International Finance Corporation (IFC), the private sector arm of the World Bank Group, Norfund, the Norwegian Investment Fund for developing countries and Swedfund, the Swedish Development Finance Institution. 

In addition, SIFEM, managed by ResponsAbility Investments, an impact asset manager, has joined as a new investor.

ARF IV seamlessly follows on to ARF III, which is now fully invested. 

The African Rivers Funds support promising small and medium-sized enterprises in Central and East Africa, which are in the missing middle segment not addressed by the banking sector and other financial institutions.

ARF IV will re-double its commitment to be a long-term partner to current and new clients, offering more than just finance. 

Next to flexible growth capital, XSML clients benefit from a range of tailored business support to improve company processes that lead to better, more sustainable businesses.

XSML expects to build a portfolio of over 50 companies in the new fund.

ARF IV already has a strong pipeline, including potential new investments in Zambia, where XSML will open an office in the first half year of 2024.“Our local teams are the basis for our success. As a team we invest much time in scouting and getting to know businesses and their leaders. We strive to foster long-term relationships with our clients. This allows us to be flexible in our financing when needed and tailor our business support,” said Van Slingelandt.