NSIA SUSTAINABLE COCOA & GENDER MBIL

The operation consists of a credit line to NSIA Banque Côte d'Ivoire for on-lending to eligible small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) and Mid-Caps, primarily active in the cocoa value chain and, to a lesser extent, the cashew sector. The operation will also contribute to improving gender equality in access to finance.

The aim is to support the sustainable development of Côte d'Ivoire's agricultural value chains. At least 80% of the facility will be allocated to the cocoa and cashew sectors combined, with a minimum of 60% specifically supporting investments that advance the sustainable development of the cocoa value chain. In addition, 30% of the financing will target businesses that promote gender equality (2X Challenge), contributing to the EIB initiative "Women for Stronger Communities and Growth". Overall, 60% of the loan is expected to qualify as Environmental Sustainability financing, with a further 20% contributing to Climate Action on a best?effort basis.

The operation falls within the scope of the EIB's Environmental and Social Standards - "Standard 11 Intermediated Finance". The Borrower / Financial Intermediary has adequate capacity, systems and processes in place for identifying, assessing, managing and monitoring environmental, climate and social (ECS) risks related to the potential sub-projects benefitting from EIB support. The Final beneficiaries will be required to comply with applicable national and EIB E&S standards in respect of environmental and social matters, as appropriate.

The Bank will require the intermediary institution to take all requisite measures to ensure that any procurement procedures carried out by final beneficiaries for the sub-projects that the Bank finances are in accordance with the Bank's Guide to Procurement.

Under EFSD+ Guarantee