A delegation representing some of Egypt’s leading construction firms concluded meetings in Washington, D.C., this week focused on securing partnerships for infrastructure projects across Africa, according to a statement released by M&P, the public policy firm that organized the visit.
The delegation, spearheaded by Samcrete, a prominent Egyptian construction and engineering company, engaged with officials from the U.S. International Development Finance Corporation (DFC), the Export-Import Bank of the United States (EXIM), and the U.S. Trade and Development Agency (USTDA). The aim was to position Egyptian companies to capitalize on increasing U.S. Investment in African infrastructure, energy, and critical minerals development.
Sherif El Bidewy, CEO of M&P, stated the mission’s objective is to establish Egyptian firms as key players in Africa’s infrastructure development. “We aim to position Egyptian companies at the forefront of Africa’s infrastructure transformation, highlighting their proven capabilities in delivering complex, large-scale projects,” El Bidewy said.
The visit comes as the United States seeks to expand its economic influence in Africa, offering an alternative to investment from countries like China. The DFC, in particular, has been actively promoting infrastructure projects on the continent, with a focus on projects that advance U.S. Strategic interests. In December 2023, the DFC committed up to $300 million in equity investment for the Lobito Corridor project, a transportation route connecting the Democratic Republic of Congo and Zambia to regional and global markets.
Egyptian firms participating in the delegation explored opportunities related to the Lobito Corridor, as well as other major infrastructure initiatives across Africa. Discussions with EXIM focused on potential financing mechanisms for Egyptian companies involved in these projects. USTDA officials outlined opportunities for technical assistance and feasibility studies.
The delegation’s visit also aligns with broader efforts to strengthen economic ties between Egypt and the United States. Egypt has been a long-standing strategic partner of the U.S., receiving significant amounts of military and economic aid. Increased cooperation in the infrastructure sector could further solidify this relationship.
KRL International, a global consulting firm, partnered with M&P and the Egyptian Ministry of Foreign Affairs to facilitate the delegation’s visit. The involvement of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs underscores the Egyptian government’s support for the initiative and its commitment to expanding its economic footprint in Africa.
Following the meetings, no specific agreements were publicly announced. Officials at the DFC, EXIM, and USTDA have not yet responded to requests for comment regarding potential partnerships with the Egyptian firms. Further discussions are expected to take place in the coming months to explore concrete project collaborations.
