• Funding targets SMEs, farmers, and agricultural value chains
• Program aims to improve access to finance and attract private capital
• Initiative to support over 300 women-led firms and 5,000 agribusiness actors

The United Kingdom has committed £2.3 million (about $3.1 million) to support agribusiness development in the Democratic Republic of Congo, through its Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO). The announcement was made on April 16 in a joint statement with the International Finance Corporation (IFC).

The funding is part of a partnership aimed at improving access to credit for agribusinesses, especially small and medium-sized enterprises, farmers, and actors across agricultural value chains.

The four-year program is designed to position agriculture as a driver of inclusive growth. It will focus on strengthening local financial institutions, improving the regulatory environment, and supporting high-potential businesses to help them secure financing.

The initiative will combine technical assistance and advisory services to mobilize more private investment into the sector. It is expected to benefit more than 300 women-owned SMEs and enable at least 5,000 farmers and agribusinesses to access financing and modern equipment.

The program will be implemented through a trust fund managed by the IFC, which will run through December 2029. The mechanism aims to catalyze private capital, improve livelihoods, and reduce the country’s reliance on food imports.

The initiative is part of the World Bank Group’s AgriConnect program. It will focus on climate-resilient agricultural finance, tailored financial products for women entrepreneurs, leasing solutions, and reforms to improve the business environment, particularly in special economic zones.

According to IFC country manager Malick Fall, the partnership is expected to strengthen agricultural value chains, create jobs, and improve food security. Peter Fernandes Cardy, development director at the British embassy in Kinshasa, said the initiative will help remove investment barriers and support sustainable, climate-resilient agricultural growth.

Ronsard Luabeya (Bankable)