Zurich-based impact investing firm Vital Capital has launched an emergency debt facility to help businesses in sub-Saharan Africa get through the coronavirus pandemic.

The Vital Impact Relief Facility will start with an initial capital of $10m with the firm then planning to open it up to other investors. Through the facility Vital Capital will offer immediate access to capital through 10 loans of approximately $1m each with a duration of up to four years and repayment on favourable terms.