The International Finance Corporation and Standard Chartered Plc have unveiled a $300 million risk-sharing facility to boost supply chain finance across eight African countries, including Nigeria, Kenya, and South Africa. IFC will provide up to $150 million in guarantees, with an initial $100 million tranche supporting transactions in US dollars and local currencies. The program aims to unlock about $1.9 billion in financing over three years, benefiting more than 500 suppliers and indirectly supporting over 1 million farmers. By absorbing part of the risk, the initiative seeks to expand credit access for small businesses, particularly in sectors like agriculture, healthcare, and manufacturing, where financing gaps remain significant.
Ecofin Agency
