The Common Market for Eastern and Southern Africa (COMESA) is rapidly strengthening its position on the global investment map, now accounting for approximately 67% of all foreign direct investment (FDI) flows into Africa, according to leaders speaking at the second COMESA Investment Forum 2026 held alongside the Kenya International Investment Conference 2026 this week.

Speaking at the opening of the Forum, Heba Salama, CEO of COMESA’s Regional Investment Agency (RIA), stated that FDI inflows into COMESA member states recorded a historic surge of 154% in 2024, reaching USD 65 billion, despite global economic challenges that have persisted since the beginning of the decade. She attributed this growth to rising investor confidence and large-scale catalytic projects in the region, driving capital flows.

COMESA’s share of global FDI inflows doubled from 2% to 4%, while its share of FDI directed to developing economies increased from 3% to 7%. As a result, the region now accounts for about 67% of total FDI inflows into Africa. Project finance in the region also witnessed notable growth, nearly doubling to USD 79 billion, while greenfield investments maintained strong performance, exceeding USD 77 billion.

Sectoral trends point to a shift in investment priorities, with construction emerging as a major growth driver, recording nearly a fivefold increase in investment.

Energy and gas supply investments have grown by 22%, while renewable energy has increased by 67%. Social sectors are also gaining traction, with health and education investments rising by 130%. However, investment has declined in food and agriculture, as well as water and sanitation, while the transport sector continues to attract lower capital than required, highlighting areas that will need targeted policy attention and investor engagement.

On the first day of the conference, Kenya announced 20 signed deals securing investments worth over US$2.9 billion across key sectors such as agriculture, mining, manufacturing, healthcare, ICT, real estate, and energy from global and local investors. During the CIF Forum, two key investment facilitation tools aimed at enhancing investor access to opportunities and data across the region were launched. Kenya unveiled the Investor’s Guide to Kenya, providing comprehensive insights into the country’s investment landscape, priority sectors, and regulatory framework, while the COMESA Investment Map, a digital platform, is designed to showcase bankable projects and investment opportunities across member states.