European Union and EBRD Strengthen Partnership to Support Private Sector Growth and Decent Jobs in Côte d’Ivoire

Abidjan, April 1, 2026 – The European Union (EU) and the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development (EBRD) have announced the launch of the “Côte d’Ivoire Financing Facility,” a funding mechanism that could reach up to 26.5 million euros (approximately 17.4 billion FCFA). This initiative, part of the EU’s Global Gateway strategy, aims to support micro, small, and medium-sized enterprises (MSMEs) in Côte d’Ivoire.

The announcement was made by H.E. Irchad Razaaly, EU Ambassador to Côte d’Ivoire, and Mr. Francis Malige, Managing Director, Financial Institutions at EBRD.

H.E. Irchad Razaaly stated: “The establishment of this Facility is an important milestone within the framework of the European Union’s Global Gateway Strategy and its partnership with Côte d’Ivoire. Through its contribution to the Facility, the EU once again places the private sector at the center of its action, aiming to address the financing needs of micro, small, and medium-sized enterprises in Côte d’Ivoire while strengthening support for Corporate Social Responsibility.”

Mr. Francis Malige added: “The launch of the Côte d’Ivoire Financing Facility marks a major step in EBRD’s commitment to Sub-Saharan Africa. By combining financing, technical assistance, and non-financial support, this program aims to sustainably enhance access to finance for Côte d’Ivoire’s MSMEs while accelerating their green, digital, and inclusive transition.”

This strategic financing initiative is intended to support Côte d’Ivoire in the sustainable development of its private sector and the creation of decent jobs, in line with the priorities of the 2026–2030 National Development Plan (PND).

The EBRD will allocate 20 million euros to the facility to provide loans to micro, small, and medium-sized enterprises in Côte d’Ivoire. This amount may be complemented by 4 million euros in co-financing from partner banks.

The EU will contribute 2.5 million euros in technical assistance to strengthen enterprise capacities, particularly on corporate social responsibility issues, and support companies in structuring their business models, identifying investment projects, and preparing financing applications through awareness-raising, training, and individualized support.

Approximately 700 enterprises are expected to benefit from the facility, with nearly 100 receiving loans.