Inside Afreximbank’s ‘Impact Stories’: The deals, dreams and industries reshaping Africa

The African Export-Import Bank has launched the second season of its documentary series Impact Stories, widening its focus beyond the continent to include projects in the Caribbean as part of its “Global Africa” strategy.

The six-part series, produced in partnership with CNN International Commercial, will feature stories from Grenada, Ghana, Côte d'Ivoire and Nigeria, highlighting how the bank’s investments are shaping industries, infrastructure and creative enterprises.

According to the bank, the new season builds on the inaugural edition by placing greater emphasis on the human and economic outcomes of its financing activities. 

The films follow major projects such as the expansion of the Silversands Resort in Grenada and the development of the Dangote Refinery in Lagos, one of Africa’s largest industrial ventures.

Other episodes spotlight the Geometric Power project in Aba, Nigeria, which aims to restore electricity to a historic manufacturing hub, and a cocoa value chain initiative in Ghana in partnership with Plot Enterprise. 

The series also tracks the rise of Ghanaian fashion label Boyedoe as it prepares for Paris Fashion Week under the bank’s Creative Africa Nexus (CANEX) programme.

Infrastructure development is also featured, including the renovation of Félix Houphouët-Boigny Stadium in Abidjan, a project positioned as a catalyst for economic and cultural activity.

Anne Ezeh, Afreximbank’s Director of Communications and Events, said the series reflects the institution’s broader mission beyond financing.

“These films are portraits of partnership and progress, demonstrating our commitment to fostering economic independence and integration across Africa and its diaspora,” she said.

Martin Laing, Senior Director of Production at CNN International Commercial, described the collaboration as an opportunity to “tell powerful human stories” while showcasing the real-world impact of development initiatives across multiple regions.

The new season premiered on Afreximbank TV on March 12 and will be promoted through digital and broadcast campaigns on CNN platforms. 

The bank said the series is intended to encourage intra-African trade and cross-border collaboration by illustrating how strategic investments translate into tangible benefits for businesses and communities.