The United Kingdom’s Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) has committed 2.3 million pounds ($3.1 million) to support the agribusiness sector in the Democratic Republic of Congo, according to a joint statement with the International Finance Corporation (IFC) on April 16, 2026.

The funding is part of a partnership to improve access to credit for agri-food businesses, with a focus on small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), farmers and agricultural value chain actors.

The four-year program aims to make agriculture a driver of inclusive growth. It will support local financial institutions, improve the regulatory environment and provide targeted assistance to high-potential businesses seeking financing.

The initiative will combine technical assistance and advisory services to help mobilize private investment in the sector. It is expected to benefit more than 300 women-owned SMEs and give at least 5,000 farmers and agri-food businesses access to financing and modern equipment.

A trust fund administered by the IFC

The program will operate through a trust fund administered by the IFC and will run until December 2029. It aims to attract private capital, improve living conditions and reduce the country’s reliance on food imports.

The initiative is part of the World Bank Group’s AgriConnect program. It will focus on climate-resilient agricultural financing, financial products tailored to women entrepreneurs, leasing solutions and business climate reforms, including in special economic zones.

Malick Fall, IFC country head, said the partnership should help strengthen agricultural value chains, create jobs and improve food security. Peter Fernandes Cardy, development director at the British Embassy in Kinshasa, said it would help ease investment constraints and support sustainable, climate-resilient agricultural growth.

Ronsard Luabeya