Africa pays a premium for its debt that in many instances it should not. Why the onerous debt costs? And what can be done about it without major systemic change?

ECAs, DFIs and banks to Madagascar’s Ambatovy nickel mine project financing are facing a wipe out of $1.66 billion loans under a new shareholder restructuring proposal. Though some of the owed debt could be recovered – if lenders stump up new cash.

Mairead Lavery at EDC is coming to the end of her term as CEO. She discusses changes in her philosophy, the need for reform of Common Approaches, and creating a robust Bretton Woods-style legacy for another 80 years of ECA support amid geopolitical challenges. Read more about legacy, relationships, integrity (and having fun).