The African Development Bank (AfDB) and the government of Togo finalized financing agreements totaling $38.9 million (approximately 22.44 billion CFA francs) on May 28 in Abidjan.
This significant funding package is dedicated to bolstering the development of climate-resilient agricultural infrastructure within Togo’s Special Agro-Industrial Processing Zones.
The financial support for Togo comprises a $29 million grant from the Green Climate Fund, administered by the AfDB, complemented by a $9.9 million loan from the Bank itself. This agreement reinforces the strategic partnership between the pan-African financial institution and Lomé.
The accords were signed during the AfDB Annual Meetings by Essowe Georges Barcola, Togo’s Minister of Economy and Finance, and Nnenna Nwabufo, the Bank Group’s Vice President for Regional Development. Minister Barcola emphasized that the project underscores Togo’s commitment to fostering sustainable and inclusive agriculture, aligning with the government’s “Togo 2025” Roadmap. Ms. Nwabufo welcomed this landmark intervention by the Green Climate Fund, noting it is the first such support for an agro-industrial processing zone on the continent, and highlighted the critical role of renewable energy in agriculture.
The comprehensive program includes the development of 10,000 hectares of agroforestry, initiatives to reduce greenhouse gas emissions, and the introduction of agricultural practices specifically adapted to climate change. A key focus is also placed on the empowerment of women farmers through improved access to irrigation, advanced processing technologies, and vital climate information services.
This initiative is in full alignment with the AfDB’s “Feed Africa” strategy and is expected to significantly accelerate the sustainable transformation of Togo’s agrifood sector.
TE/Sf/fss/abj/APA