In an effort to support African and Caribbean economies affected by the ongoing Middle East conflict, multilateral trade finance institution African Export-Import Bank (Afreximbank) reports that it will make available $10-billion under its Gulf Crisis Response Programme (GCRP).

The bank states that the programme aims to limit economic shocks affecting countries that rely on fuel, liquefied natural gas (LNG), fertilisers and food imports from the Gulf region. It does this by providing short-term foreign exchange and liquidity support to member States.

The conflict, which escalated on February 28, 2026, has disrupted global energy markets, with the Gulf region a key supplier of oil and LNG. Afreximbank notes that the disruption has had a significant impact on African and Caribbean economies, particularly those dependent on imported energy.

Afreximbank explains that the GCRP is designed to enable African energy exporters to respond to higher prices and shifting trade flows by scaling production through pre-export finance, working capital and inventory financing.

In addition, the programme will support the development of energy, port and logistics infrastructure projects that have been delayed by the crisis, while also strengthening longer-term resilience in energy and minerals production.

Afreximbank reports that the programme was launched on March 31, 2026.

Afreximbank president and chairperson Dr George Elombi says the programme is aligned with the bank’s approach to supporting member economies during periods of global disruption. He adds that the initiative will assist countries in adjusting to current conditions while strengthening resilience to future shocks.

The GCRP builds on previous interventions introduced in response to earlier global crises, including commodity market disruptions, the Covid-19 pandemic and the Ukraine crisis. It notes that these programmes supported countries in addressing liquidity constraints and maintaining access to essential goods.

Afreximbank adds that it has already started working with banks and corporates to secure supplies.

Further, the bank indicates that it will coordinate regional efforts with international organisations including the UN Economic Commission for Africa, the African Union Commission, the African Continental Free Trade Area Secretariat and the Caribbean Community Secretariat to support energy security and supply chain resilience.