• The Islamic Development Bank (IsDB) approves $665.75 million for seven African countries as part of a broader $1.32 billion package

• Funding targets sectors including health, transport, food security, water, and vocational training

• Projects aim to foster inclusive growth and climate resilience across member states

The Islamic Development Bank (IsDB) has approved $665.75 million in financing for seven African member countries, forming part of a larger $1.32 billion funding package aimed at socio-economic development. The decision was made by the bank’s board of directors on May 19, 2025, during a meeting in Algeria.

The funding targets key areas such as healthcare, infrastructure, food security, water access, and vocational training, with a focus on fostering inclusive growth, enhancing climate resilience, and expanding economic opportunities for youth and women.

Cameroon will receive $239 million to rehabilitate the Douala–Bafoussam road corridor. Burkina Faso has been allocated $211.45 million for upgrading road and rail infrastructure to strengthen regional connectivity.

In Djibouti, $26.1 million will be used to establish a national oncology center in partnership with Morocco. Togo is set to receive $2 million for eye care services and $26 million for water supply infrastructure in the Kara region.

Mauritania will obtain $40.9 million for modernizing vocational training, while Côte d’Ivoire is set to receive $117.3 million for rice value chain development. Gambia will benefit from a $3 million investment to support its peanut industry.

IsDB President Muhammad Sulaiman Al Jasser emphasized the bank’s commitment to transformative and high-impact development. “From strengthening flood resilience to expanding healthcare access, improving food security, and training youth in essential skills, these funds will drive progress toward sustainable development goals,” he stated.

Since its establishment in 1975, the IsDB has grown to include 57 member countries, including 27 in Africa. By June 2022, the bank had disbursed $65 billion in funding to African nations, of which $20 billion was allocated to trade finance, according to former Vice President Mansur Muhtar.