The United States-Africa Energy Forum (USAEF) is proud to announce that James C. Cruz, Acting President and Chairman of the Export-Import Bank of the United States (EXIM), will be participating in the 2025 edition of the Forum, to be held August 6-7 in Houston.
EXIM plays a critical role in advancing U.S.-Africa energy cooperation by funding strategic projects that support U.S. exports and promote energy security across the continent. In recent months, the Bank has deepened its engagement with Africa’s key energy markets, mobilizing capital for large-scale projects that build long-term development and commercial partnerships.
EXIM’s $4.7 billion financing facility for its landmark Mozambique LNG project remains one of the bank’s most significant contributions to Africa’s energy sector. The loan, reapproved in March 2025, is the largest in EXIM’s history in sub-Saharan Africa and will enable U.S. companies to supply development equipment and services, setting a strong precedent for U.S. participation in large-scale natural gas infrastructure on the continent. EXIM’s first commitment in 2019 de-risked the project at a critical moment, enabled further investment and contributed to positioning Mozambique as a future global LNG hub.
EXIM has also established itself as a reliable partner for Africa’s key mineral producing countries, providing technical and financial assistance to support project development. In addition to investing in the Lobito rail corridor, designed to connect Angola’s Atlantic coast to the mineral-rich Copperbelt region, EXIM recently expressed interest in providing a $225 million loan to support a battery-grade manganese project in Botswana. These efforts align with the Export-Import Organization’s Supply Chain Resilience Initiative, which aims to strengthen the United States’ access to critical minerals and reduce dependence on China as global demand for materials such as manganese increases.
At USAEF 2025, Cruise will contribute to the discussion on the future of energy financing in Africa, as EXIM plays an increasingly active role in supporting Africa’s industrial development and energy access while promoting investment across oil, gas and critical infrastructure. His participation reflects the United States’ broader commitment to enabling commercially viable energy development in Africa through export credit support, capacity-building partnerships, and public-private partnerships.
The next forum will bring together U.S. and African energy leaders to forge new partnerships, mobilize resources, and align priorities across the public and private sectors. EXIM’s participation strengthens Houston’s role as a nexus for global energy finance and underscores the bank’s strategic vision for U.S.-Africa energy cooperation.
Contact us for tickets, sponsorship opportunities, and other details. sales@energycapitalpower.com Or visit usafricaenergy.com. Join us in Houston to connect with the leaders shaping Africa’s energy landscape and experience the momentum driving ECP events around the world.
