IFC plans $50 million loan for Zambia Hilton hotel, Djibouti warehouse

International Finance Corporation (IFC) is preparing a major investment of up to $50 million in Africa, targeting hospitality expansion in Zambia and logistics infrastructure in Djibouti as part of a broader $97 million development project led by Asmara Holdings Limited.

IFC backs dual expansion in Zambia, Djibouti

The proposed financing, currently pending approval with a projected board date of September 15, 2026, will be extended to Zebra Manufacturing Limited and Future Africa International Trading FZE. The funding will support two key developments: a Hilton-branded hotel in Lusaka and a warehousing facility in Djibouti’s Damerjog Industrial Development Free Trade Zone.

The Lusaka project, branded as Hilton Lusaka, underscores Zambia’s growing appeal as a destination for business and tourism investment, while the Djibouti warehouse aims to strengthen grain storage and logistics capacity in the Horn of Africa.

Strategic push into tourism and logistics

The investment aligns with IFC’s broader strategy to deepen its footprint in Africa’s tourism, retail, and property sectors, particularly within city and business hotel segments. By combining hospitality infrastructure with supply chain logistics, the project is expected to deliver both localized and regional economic benefits.

IFC’s involvement goes beyond financing. In Zambia, the institution is supporting Zebra Manufacturing with EDGE (Excellence in Design for Greater Efficiencies) certification advisory to promote sustainable building practices. In Djibouti, it is assisting Future Africa with project preparation to improve bankability and execution.

At the group level, IFC is also working with Asmara Holdings through its Financial Management Advisory program to strengthen governance, transparency, and reporting standards—key pillars for long-term investment readiness.

Ownership and structure

Zebra Manufacturing is jointly owned by Yemane Berhe Weldeslassie and Daniel Berhe Weldeslassie, each holding a 50% stake. Future Africa International Trading FZE is fully owned by Daniel Berhe Weldeslassie, consolidating his role across both arms of the project.

Jobs, supply chains, and regional impact

According to IFC’s internal assessment, the project is expected to generate significant economic impact through job creation, increased value addition, and expanded opportunities for domestic suppliers. It is also designed to enhance competitiveness in local markets by introducing higher standards and operational benchmarks.

Beyond Zambia, the Djibouti warehouse is poised to play a strategic role in improving food supply resilience across the Horn of Africa by strengthening grain storage and distribution networks, an area of increasing importance amid global supply chain disruptions.

With approval still pending, the project represents a significant step in IFC’s continued push to catalyze private sector-led growth across Africa’s emerging markets.