Vantage finalizes $71.7 million debt investment in Camusat to enhance telecom services

Timilehin Adejumobi -
Key Points
  • Vantage Capital has secured a €66 million ($71.7 million) mezzanine debt investment in Camusat Holding to refinance debts and support capital expenditures.
  • The investment is part of an €81 million financing initiative, executed in partnership with Eurazeo, and follows Vantage’s recent €14 million investment in SPMS.
  • Founded in 2001, Vantage Capital specializes in private equity, infrastructure, and subordinated debt investments across Sub-Saharan Africa.

Vantage Capital, a leading fund manager led by South African businessman Colin Rezek, has secured a €66 million ($71.7 million) mezzanine debt investment in Camusat Holding, a key player in the telecommunications sector.

This funding will be instrumental in refinancing existing debts and providing capital for the development of Camusat's AktivCo division. It is part of a broader financing initiative totaling €81 million ($88 million), executed in collaboration with Eurazeo, a leading European investment firm.

The announcement comes on the heels of Vantage Capital’s recent €14 million ($15.2 million) mezzanine investment in Société de Production Maraîchère Samir S.A. (“SPMS”), aimed at bolstering investment initiatives.

Investment strengthens connectivity in Africa

Vantage Capital's investment in Camusat marks the 39th commitment across its four fund generations, with a portfolio that spans eleven African nations. The legal representation for Vantage was provided by Clifford Chance in Morocco, while KPMG and Webber Wentzel served as tax advisors.

Commercial advice was provided by Emerton, and Ibis Consulting conducted an environmental impact study. Camusat received legal and financial guidance from Goodwin Procter and Marlborough Partners, both based in France.

Richard Thomas, CEO of Camusat, expressed enthusiasm about the partnership, stating, "We’re pleased to partner with Vantage Capital at a time of strong growth in Africa. Their network and expertise will be invaluable in achieving our goals." 

Luc Albinski, Executive Chairman of Vantage Capital, noted, "We are proud to partner with Camusat, whose leadership and commitment to expanding connectivity in underdeveloped African regions have been impressive."

Driss Benabdeslam, Partner at Vantage Capital, emphasized the importance of investing in Camusat, stating, “Investing in Camusat supports a vital, dynamic industry focused on operational excellence. 

Vantage Capital drives sustainable growth

Founded in 2001 and headquartered in Johannesburg, Vantage Capital specializes in private equity, infrastructure, and subordinated debt investments across Sub-Saharan Africa.

Under Colin Rezek, who has been pivotal in the company’s operations, Vantage Capital has established itself as a leader in mezzanine finance, closing its fourth mezzanine fund in 2023 with $377 million in commitmentsa from various investors, including U.S. and European commercial entities and development finance institutions.

This underscores Vantage Capital's significant role in promoting sustainable growth and innovation in Africa.