How did you come to be in the investor industry?I began investing in the Africa power sector in 2009. Previously my career included five years in the public sector in Afghanistan, working for the Afghan Finance Minister on economic reform including the energy sector and the UN on job creation. I preferred to switch back to the private sector side of emerging markets to drive growth, and I was motivated by the opportunity in the energy sector and the impact it has on economies.

What is the main area of growth for Actis in Africa?

Actis is technology agnostic but has recently focused on gas, wind and solar PV power generation greenfield/brownfield/acquisition opportunities, via our power platforms such as Lekela and Azura. We are also focused on distribution companies, following our success in Umeme (Uganda) and Energuate (Guatemala).

How much capital does Actis plan to deploy into the African energy sector in 2017?

Actis has recently closed on a $2.75b growth markets energy fund to invest in Africa, Asia and Latin America. Much of this will be deployed on bankable power projects and platforms and distribution companies in Africa.

Is this an increase or decrease from 2016 and if an increase/decrease, why?

Actis has had strong and consistent appetite for Africa investments for decades.

If you could only eat one type of cuisine for the rest of your life, what would it be and why?Lebanese – my husband is from Beirut, and visiting his family is a gastronomical pleasure.