Since its establishment in 2011, the specialized fund, dedicated to supporting African SMEs, reports it has already unlocked over $5 billion in financing for SMEs, in partnership with more than 250 financial institutions across 44 African countries.

African Guarantee Fund (AGF) West Africa’s board has appointed Serge Mian as Managing Director, effective Monday, November 3, 2025. Based in Abidjan, the seasoned banker will oversee the fund’s operations across West Africa, covering both French- and English-speaking countries.

The Ivorian national will be responsible for driving AGF’s growth in the region, developing financial solutions suited to local markets, and ensuring sound governance and regulatory compliance. He will also oversee daily operations and guide his teams in implementing the institution’s strategy. A key priority will be expanding access to finance for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), a major challenge in a region where many entrepreneurs struggle to secure bank credit.

Jules Ngankam, CEO of the AGF Group, said Mian’s broad international experience will be a major asset in helping the institution fulfill its mission of facilitating bank financing for African SMEs. Mian brings more than 20 years of experience in international finance. He previously served as Director of Investments and Investor Relations at the pan-African banking group Orabank, where he oversaw capital raising and expansion projects.

Mian began his career in France at Axa Investment Managers before moving to the United States. His professional background includes roles at Addax Asset Management in the U.S., Deloitte France, J.P. Morgan, and EY Côte d’Ivoire, where he led M&A and capital-raising activities. “I’m thrilled to be joining AGF and look forward to working with this outstanding team on the journey ahead,” Mian wrote on social media.

He holds degrees from École nationale de statistique et d’économie appliquée and HEC Paris, and is a CFA charterholder, a globally recognized credential in investment and finance.

Sandrine Gaingne