(Ecofin Agency) - The World Bank announces a new disbursement of $100 million to accelerate digital transformation in rural areas in the Republic of Benin.

The project is designed to make broadband internet and digital solutions more accessible in the focus areas. The institution said this will improve the efficiency of selected value-chains, ease financial inclusion and access to markets.

The digital rural program will consolidate the activity of more than 1.2 million small farmers who cultivate rice, corn, shea and vegetables through improved access to financial services and information. It will “contribute to increasing the productivity and competitiveness of two key growth sectors namely agriculture and ICT,” World Bank noted.

In addition, the project supports the rehabilitation of about 600 km of rural roads and maintenance of about 2,400 km within a 4-year period in the production areas covered.

Moutiou Adjibi Nourou