The Mso-bidi-font-family:arial; mso-fareast-language:en"> International Finance Corporation (IFC) announced on Thursday, September 25, 2025, the conclusion of a $10 million guarantee agreement in favor of Access Bank Sierra Leone, local subsidiary of one of the main financial institutions from Nigeria.

mso-fareast-language:en">The Company International Financial Services (IFC) plans to support small businesses and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in Sierra Leone. Funding granted to Access Bank aims to strengthen the bank's capacity to provide loans to SMEs local ones with a particular focus on those headed by women. This partnership will allow the SFI to set up a risk-sharing system, offering Access Bank the ability to grant up to $20 million in loans in local currency to SMEs. At least 25% of this funding will be specifically reserved for women's businesses. The objective of Access Bank is to reach more than 50% within five years.

This initiative is part of the Programme Small Loan Guarantee Scheme (SLGP) from the SFI, a mechanism set up to reduce the risks associated with financing SMEs in fragile economies and low income. This program aims to mobilize more private resources. towards key development sectors, with a direct impact on employment, inclusion financial and sustainable economic growth.

A en believe Abdu Muwonge, representative of the Group of World Bank for Sierra Leone, “SMEs are essential for creating jobs and strengthening resilience and growth in Sierra Leone, where they create the vast majority of jobs. Through this partnership, we will help numerous businesses access financing necessary for their growth.”