Jules Ngankam is Driving Financial Inclusion and SME Growth Across Africa

He is widely recognized for his leadership in supporting small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) across Africa by making it easier for them to access finance. 

His work focuses on reducing the risks that financial institutions face when lending to SMEs, which helps unlock capital for businesses that are often overlooked by the traditional banking sector.

Jules has built his career around the idea that Africa’s economic transformation depends on the growth of its private sector, especially SMEs.

He believes that SMEs are not just job creators but also drivers of innovation and local development.

Under his leadership, AGF has become a major player in Africa’s development finance ecosystem, working closely with banks, development agencies, and governments to design solutions that address real challenges faced by entrepreneurs on the continent.

He joined AGF in 2013 and has held several senior positions within the organization, including Chief Financial Officer and Chief Operating Officer, before being appointed Group CEO.

Since taking on the top role, Jules has overseen the expansion of AGF’s operations to more than 40 African countries.

He has introduced new guarantee products that target underserved groups such as women-led businesses, green enterprises, and youth entrepreneurs.

These include AGF’s partnership with the African Development Bank to support the AFAWA (Affirmative Finance Action for Women in Africa) initiative, which is one of the continent’s most ambitious programs aimed at closing the gender finance gap.

Before joining AGF, Jules worked in investment banking in Europe, where he gained experience in structured finance at major institutions like BNP Paribas and Société Générale.

His academic background includes a Master’s in Management from HEC Paris and a Master’s in Applied Mathematics from École Centrale Paris.

He has also studied at Harvard Kennedy School, where he deepened his understanding of public-private partnerships in development.

What sets Jules apart is his clear mission: to create a financial system in Africa that works for everyone, not just large corporations.

He is committed to changing the way finance operates on the continent by pushing for inclusive lending practices, promoting sustainable development, and encouraging innovation in how credit is assessed and delivered.

Under his leadership, AGF has received international recognition for its impact. In 2021, the organization was awarded “Best Guarantee Institution” at the African Banker Awards.

Jules also speaks at global forums on development finance, climate resilience, and inclusive growth in Africa.

He continues to advocate for stronger collaboration between public institutions and private investors to ensure that Africa’s economic growth is both inclusive and sustainable.