Jonathan Shafer: Changing Techniques

About this Podcast:

Why is Africa still overlooked by global investors despite strong returns and massive opportunity? In this episode of Emerging Thesis, Jonathan Shafer of Screen Renewables breaks down the investment case for Africa, with a focus on renewable energy, housing development, and patient capital in Rwanda and East Africa.

Jonathan shares his journey from U.S. private equity to building cash-flowing energy and real estate projects across the continent. We explore Africa’s capital scarcity, risk perception versus reality, and why sectors like renewable energy and build-to-rent housing can deliver strong IRRs while creating jobs and long-term community impact.

The conversation also dives into faith-driven investing, storytelling in capital markets, and why Rwanda has become a hub for sustainable development, institutional investment, and quality of life. This episode offers a grounded perspective on impact investing, African markets, and building businesses that align profit with purpose.