About

The purpose of ASCI is to enable selected secondary cities in Sub-Saharan Africa to better access finance for their sustainable urban infrastructure needs through an integrated, planning-led and multi-sector approach. On behalf of the European Investment Bank (EIB), the GFA Consulting Group selects countries and cities based on a situation analysis of the cities’ capacities regarding the state of their municipal financial planning. Its team develops municipal financial strategies and facilitates capacity development for cities and other relevant institutions. GFA experts also offer advisory services to selected sustainable urban infrastructure projects and connect cities to potential investors through events and virtual platforms.

Assistance Criteria

Though not formally published in checklist form, ASCI’s selection hinges on the outcome of the situational analysis conducted by GFA. Primary criteria include a city’s existing capacity in municipal financial planning, demonstrated financial management and creditworthiness, readiness to develop municipal financing strategies, and potential to formulate viable urban infrastructure investment plans. In short, cities showing a mature baseline in financial and planning capabilities are prioritized.

Countries

Support

Once selected, ASCI offers a comprehensive suite of support services. GFA delivers capacity development and advisory assistance aimed at crafting municipal financial strategies, fostering project preparation, and improving creditworthiness. The initiative also aids in identifying and preparing sustainable urban infrastructure projects, guiding cities toward financial readiness. Furthermore, ASCI enhances visibility by facilitating connections between cities and potential investors—through in-person events and virtual platforms—enabling stronger investor engagement and raising project funding prospects.

Application Process

ASCI does not operate via a standard public application mechanism. Instead, cities (and by extension national authorities) are selected implicitly through situational analysis initiated by ASCI’s implementation partner, GFA Consulting Group, on behalf of the EIB. This analysis evaluates cities’ existing capacity in municipal financial planning, budgeting, and governance. Those deemed to meet baseline requirements are then engaged with directly to receive advisory support.