West African Development Bank expands SME financing in Côte d’Ivoire

The West African Development Bank (BOAD) is expanding its financial support for the private sector in Côte d’Ivoire. During a business meeting in Abidjan, the institution highlighted its significant investment footprint in the country, which currently totals approximately 2,600 billion FCFA. More than 43% of these funds have been directed toward the private sector.

As part of a specific financing initiative, a 10 billion FCFA ($14.3 million) facility is being made available to small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) and small industrial businesses through COFINA Côte d’Ivoire. This funding is intended to provide medium-term financing, specifically targeting needs such as equipment, machinery, and infrastructure. The facility also includes provisions for women-led businesses and green projects.

Under its Djoliba Strategic Plan (2026-2030), BOAD aims to commit over 6,500 billion FCFA to the UEMOA region, with a strong emphasis on fostering national champions among local SMEs and PMIs.