The European Bank for Reconstruction and Development has approved €130 million in financing to support agribusiness development in West Africa, targeting stronger value chains in Côte d’Ivoire and Nigeria.

The funding includes €60 million for Robust International to enhance working capital for key commodities such as cashew and sesame, alongside new training programs to promote organic farming, fair-trade practices, and improved standards for smallholder farmers.

An additional €70 million has been allocated to Valency International to scale procurement, processing, and exports of agricultural products including cocoa, soybeans, and sesame, while expanding sourcing from local farmers.

Part of the investment will also boost the utilization of Valency’s cashew processing facility in Côte d’Ivoire, supporting local value addition, job creation, and improved market access for producers.

The initiative is expected to strengthen supply chain resilience, enhance sustainability standards, and reinforce the competitiveness of West Africa’s agricultural sector through increased investment and technical support.