United Capital Plc, a leading Nigerian financial institution, has expanded its pan-African footprint with the launch of United Capital Asset Management West Africa Limited (UCAMWAL), its first subsidiary in Francophone West Africa. Unveiled in Abidjan, Côte d’Ivoire, the subsidiary introduced two CFA franc-denominated mutual funds, the UCAMWAL Bond Fund and the UCAMWAL Diversified Fund; targeting investors across the eight-nation West African Economic and Monetary Union (WAEMU).

Speaking at the launch event, United Capital’s Group CEO Peter Ashade described the initiative as a milestone in the firm’s mission to foster financial inclusion and economic resilience. “These funds mark the beginning of our expansion into WAEMU, delivering sophisticated yet accessible wealth management solutions,” Ashade said. “We aim to shape a financially inclusive Africa, driven by Africans for Africans.”

The UCAMWAL Bond Fund, a low-risk, open-ended fund, focuses on fixed income and money market instruments, ideal for conservative investors seeking capital preservation and steady returns. The UCAMWAL Diversified Fund offers a balanced approach, investing across fixed income, money market instruments, and equities to achieve long-term capital appreciation and income diversification. Both funds, approved by the Financial Markets Authority of WAEMU (AMF-UMOA), cater to individual and institutional investors across Benin, Burkina Faso, Côte d’Ivoire, Guinea-Bissau, Mali, Niger, Senegal, and Togo.

Ejikeme Okoli, Director of Africa Operations at United Capital, emphasized the strategic intent behind the expansion. “This is about impact, not just presence,” Okoli said. “We’re building a pan-African institution that collaborates with local economies to unlock prosperity through tailored financial solutions.” He highlighted the funds’ role in managing risk and driving inclusive growth across the region.

UCAMWAL’s Managing Director Labas Bamba noted the timely launch amid growing demand for innovative investment solutions in WAEMU. “These funds blend global standards with local insights, addressing the unique needs of investors,” Bamba said. With United Capital’s proven track record, managing nearly ₦2 trillion in assets and over $500 million in mutual funds in Nigeria, UCAMWAL is poised to become a leading investment partner in the region.

Headquartered in Abidjan and licensed by AMF-UMOA, UCAMWAL offers portfolio management, mutual funds, and financial advisory services. The launch is expected to bolster the development of WAEMU’s capital markets, mobilizing domestic savings and channeling them into productive investments, aligning with regional economic priorities.