Rwanda's development bank issues $25m sustainability bond
The Development Bank of Rwanda (BRD) has initiated a public offer for its debut Sustainability-Linked Bond (SLB), valued at Rwf 30 billion, starting on September 29th. This SLB benefits from partial credit enhancement via a World Bank lending operation under the Access to Finance for Economic Recovery and Resilience Project (AFIRR), supporting the Rwandan government.
With a maturity period of seven years and a target of $24.8 million (Rwf 30 billion), this issuance is the first within a larger $124 million (Rwf 150 billion) Medium Term Note Programme. The bond's offering period will conclude on October 13th, following which it will be listed and traded on the Rwanda Stock Exchange.
The SLB's primary purpose is to raise funds that will aid BRD in integrating environmental, social, and governance (ESG) criteria into its operations with partner financial institutions. It will also support the financing of women-led businesses and affordable housing initiatives, aligning with the bank's commitment to sustainable development.
Key Takeaways
In an era marked by growing concerns about environmental and social issues, sustainable investing has gained significant traction in the global investment community. Investors worldwide are increasingly looking for opportunities to align their portfolios with their ethical values and contribute to a more sustainable future. One instrument that has gained prominence in this regard is the social bond, which plays a pivotal role in sustainable investing. Social bonds are a subset of sustainable bonds designed to raise capital for projects that have a positive impact on society. These projects typically address critical social issues such as power/electricity, healthcare, education, affordable housing, and poverty alleviation. Unlike traditional bonds, which focus solely on financial returns, social bonds are characterized by their dual objectives of generating financial returns for investors while delivering measurable social benefits. This makes them a powerful tool for investors who want to make a positive impact on society without sacrificing their financial goals.
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