The funding comes through agreements with the Facility for Energy Inclusion (FEI), led by Cygnum Capital, and Norfund.

The funds will support the development, construction, operation, and maintenance of clean energy infrastructure to supply power to Mali’s leading mobile network operator.

CREI will offer an “energy as a service” model, ensuring consistent and sustainable power supply to telecom sites across the country.

As the lead arranger of the deal, FEI played a central role in structuring the transaction.

This financing is part of a larger $59 million investment by CREI and its financial partners to modernize Mali’s telecom energy systems.

The project focuses on hybrid renewable energy solutions combined with battery storage, aimed at boosting the reliability and sustainability of telecom services, especially in remote areas.

Kadri El Hakim, CEO of CREI, emphasized the importance of the project:

“This financing confirms the strong support from our partners for impactful investments in developing regions. By rolling out solar hybrid systems, we’re not just improving telecom access—we’re also generating jobs, encouraging economic growth, and contributing to Mali’s broader digital and sustainable development goals.”

FEI’s Executive Director Thibault Neveu highlighted the wider impact of the deal:

“This is a major step in bringing clean and reliable energy to Mali’s telecom sector. Our role in this investment reinforces FEI’s commitment to advancing renewable energy in emerging markets and supporting digital inclusion throughout Africa.”

Norfund’s Senior Vice President, Birgit Edlefsen, also pointed to the long-term benefits of the investment:

“We are proud to back CREI in this project, which supports vital infrastructure in a fragile state. It aligns with our goal of helping to build stronger economies and more stable societies through renewable energy.”

The project marks a significant step forward for sustainable infrastructure in Mali, signaling growing interest in clean energy investments across Africa’s telecom sector.