European Investment Bank and Centenary Bank launch €7.5m Malawi agriculture deal

The European Investment Bank (EIB) and Centenary Bank have signed a €7.5 million (approximately K15.1 billion to K15.6 billion) financing agreement to support small-scale agricultural businesses and farmers in Malawi.

Launched in Lilongwe, the initiative aims to improve financial inclusion and access to capital for small and medium enterprises (SMEs). The funding is specifically targeted at agri-food businesses with fewer than 10 employees, as well as smallholder farmers. The allocation is split equally, with 50 percent earmarked for promoting sustainable agriculture and the remaining 50 percent supporting businesses led by women and youth.

Malawi’s Minister of Finance, Joseph Mwanamvekha, stated that the deal will enable farmers to invest in better inputs and help small businesses expand, thereby creating jobs and supporting economic growth. The operation is also backed by a European Union-financed guarantee, aligning with the EU’s ‘Global Gateway’ investment commitments. Additionally, the EIB will provide technical assistance to strengthen Centenary Bank’s capacity for agricultural lending and climate-resilient farming practices.