Strategic Collaboration to Strengthen Agricultural Finance in Africa

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The Grameen Crédit Agricole Foundation, ACRE Africa, and ZEP-RE (PTA Reinsurance) have signed a Strategic Collaboration aimed at strengthening access to finance and insurance for smallholder farmers across the African continent.

This collaboration brings together three organizations with complementary expertise:

  • ACRE Africa, a leading agricultural insurance broker specializing in the design of innovative risk-management products;
  • ZEP-RE, a regional reinsurance company with extensive experience in agricultural and weather-based insurance solutions;
  • The Grameen Crédit Agricole Foundation, an impact-driven investment vehicle committed to financing microfinance institutions and promoting inclusive agriculture.

A long-standing partner and shareholder of ACRE Africa since 2014, the Foundation has been actively involved for many years in advancing agricultural microinsurance for smallholder farmers.

 

Within the framework of this collaboration, the three organizations have committed to:

✅ Conducting joint fundraising initiatives to support agricultural finance programs;

✅ Exploring equity investment opportunities to enhance their collective impact;

✅ Sharing technical expertise to develop and scale bundled agri-credit and insurance solutions.

The shared goal is clear: to strengthen farmers' resilience, productivity, and financial inclusion through improved access to credit supported by effective risk-mitigation tools.

This strategic alliance reflects the common commitment of all three partners to work together in good faith to drive sustainable and inclusive agricultural development in Africa, creating lasting positive impact for smallholder farmers and their communities.

 

Watch the video to learn more by this link.

The Grameen Crédit Agricole Foundation at the World Forum on the Social and Solidarity Economy in Bordeaux

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From October 29 to 31, 2025, the city of Bordeaux hosted for the first time in France the World Forum on the Social and Solidarity Economy (GSEF). This major international event brought together more than 10,000 participants came from five continents elected officials, leaders, experts, field actors, representatives of development agencies and international organizations, all mobilized to promote more sustainable, equitable and inclusive economic models.

The Grameen Crédit Agricole Foundation was represented there by Veronique Faujour, General Delegate, and Philippe Guichandut, Secretary General. Their participation helped to highlight the Foundation's role in financing the social and solidarity economy and its commitment to inclusive finance in the service of sustainable development.

 

Two presentations particularly highlighted the Foundation's presence during this 7th edition of the Forum:

  • During the plenary session dedicated to financing the social and solidarity economy, Véronique Faujour presented the Foundation's mission, strategic priorities, and action tools. She notably highlighted the launch of the fund Women Empowerment for Climate, An impact fund dedicated to women's economic empowerment and climate adaptation. This fund targets three key sectors in which women play a vital role: access to clean water, access to renewable energy, and the promotion of sustainable agricultural techniques. These initiatives aim to strengthen the resilience of local communities to climate change, while fostering greater economic inclusion for women.
  • During a workshop on financial inclusion and women's leadership, Véronique Faujour emphasized that successful transitions are built from the ground up, closely aligned with community needs. She highlighted the importance of a leadership exercised by women, for women and with women, an essential condition according to her, for local solutions to inspire and guide global development policies.

 

 

This edition of the GSEF, placed under the sign of dialogue, of the cooperation and of the sharing experiences, This has enabled the creation of new bridges between public, private, and civil society actors. The fruitful discussions throughout the forum have given rise to concrete perspectives for strengthening the collective impact of the social and solidarity economy in the years to come.

The meeting concluded with a final declaration that will define a common roadmap for the next two years, confirming the global momentum towards a fairer, more inclusive and resilient economy.

Strengthening financial inclusion in Malawi: a new partnership between the Grameen Crédit Agricole Foundation and Centenary Bank Malawi

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On October 13, 2025, in Nairobi (Kenya), the Grameen Crédit Agricole Foundation and Centenary Bank Malawi (CBLM), member of the Centenary Group, signed a Statement of intent marking an important step in the development of inclusive finance in Malawi.

This partnership is part of the shared mission of both institutions. to promote inclusive financial services, innovative And durable, with particular attention paid to women entrepreneurs and rural populations.

 

This future collaboration is based on three major pillars:

  • Technical assistance : the Foundation and CBLM will work together to identify and implement technical support in key areas such as inclusive finance, risk management, digitalization and agricultural finance.
  • Financial support : The Foundation aims to become CBLM’s first private international lender, thereby helping to strengthen its financial base and expand its financing capacity.
  • Catalytic effect By supporting this partnership, the Foundation aims to encourage the attraction of additional investments and stimulate the development of the Malawian financial sector.

 

This new commitment builds on the vision and successes of the Centenary Group, particularly through Centenary Bank Uganda, and is in line with the Foundation's strong historical roots in Malawi.

The Foundation extends its sincere thanks to Mr. Godfrey Helewala, Managing Director of CBLM, and Mr. John DeLuca, Executive Chairman of the Centenary Group, for their trust and commitment. Together, they are laying the foundations for a more inclusive and resilient financial future for Malawi.

Grameen Crédit Agricole Foundation at the African Inclusive Finance Week (SAM 2025)

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The Foundation participated in African Inclusive Finance Week (SAT 2025), which was held in Nairobi from October 7 to 11. This major industry event brought together more than 1,200 inclusive finance actors from across the continent to discuss the challenges and the sector innovations.

SAM 2025 Nairobi, Kenya ©Philippe Lissac/GODONG

Present alongside numerous partners, the Foundation took part in several panels and workshops devoted to essential themes:

On the first day, the Foundation organized a workshop on the ’ Climate emergency and economic vulnerability : Spotlight on inclusive finance and insurance», with the participation of the MicroInsurance Network (MIN) and hosted by Hanadi TUTUNJI.

Later in the day, Edouard SERS and Philippe GUICHANDUT spoke and moderated a session on « Impact Bridges : Connecting Europe and Africa for a Sustainable Future», organized by Financing Innovation Tool (FIT).

On the second day, Khady FALL spoke in the workshop « When regulations change, who is left behind? – How are new regulations redefining inclusive finance in Africa? The case of UMOA», and Philippe GUICHANDUT spoke in the workshop « Prospective : mixed models and non-traditional financing possibilities».

Finally, on Thursday, the Foundation organized a workshop on the ’ Financial inclusion of forcibly displaced persons : what economic opportunities for displaced people, PSF and investors? », led by Hanadi TUTUNJI who also spoke later in the workshop « Climate Risk Coverage for Impact Investors »", organized by the MicroInsurance Network.
And finally, the Foundation organized a final workshop on the « Techno-Human : AI & Digital for Inclusive and Human Finance in Africa».

The discussions highlighted several strong trends:

  • Digital transformation, which opens new perspectives for reaching rural populations, while highlighting the importance of the human connection in customer relations.
  • Climate finance, which has become an essential lever for strengthening the resilience of vulnerable communities in the face of environmental shocks.
  • Blended finance, combining public and private capital, as a key driver of sustainable financing and attracting responsible investments.

 

For the Foundation, committed to supporting microfinance institutions and social enterprises in Africa—which represent more than 50 % of its partners and 40 % of its portfolio—this edition of the SAM was an opportunity to strengthen ties, listen to the needs on the ground and reaffirm its commitment to more inclusive and resilient finance.

The FGCA approach: a rigorous and human investment process

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What are the Foundation’s commitments to impact finance?
Maxime Borgogno, Investment Officer, sheds light on the selection process for supported organizations and the evolution of the Foundation's investment strategy.

An approach based on three key criteria:

Our selection process is based on three fundamental pillars:

  • The impact: The organization's ability to reach vulnerable populations and offer them appropriate services.
  • The social mission: The institution's commitment to ensuring social benefits for its employees and clients.
  • Financial performance: The health and viability of the microfinance institution.

The heart of our process: field due diligence

Funding application reviews include in-depth due diligence, including a site visit. This step is crucial for us to understand our partners' business models, governance, and social performance. It's by visiting our partners' sites that we can best identify their needs, understand their challenges, and build relationships of trust.

Investment strategy and climate issues

The Foundation's investment portfolio is evolving to adapt to a constantly changing global context. Our 2022-2025 strategic plan places a particular emphasis on financing climate risk mitigation and adaptation. This focus guides us in our search for new partners, targeting those who actively integrate climate issues into their activities. This is also why we have strengthened our presence in sub-Saharan Africa and South and Southeast Asia, regions particularly vulnerable to the effects of climate change.

➡️ Watch the video to learn more about our approach!

 

In Memoriam: Mr. Shahjahan, Vice President of Grameen Crédit Agricole Foundation

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In Memoriam : Mr. Shahjahan, Vice President of Grameen Crédit Agricole Foundation

It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of Mr. Shahjahan, Vice President of the Grameen Crédit Agricole Foundation, who passed away on August 22, 2025. A founding member of the Foundation alongside Professor Mohammad Yunus, Mr. Shahjahan was instrumental in shaping our mission and vision to foster financial inclusion and sustainable development for disadvantaged communities.

Beyond his role with the Foundation, Mr. Shahjahan has brought invaluable experience and expertise as a member of our Investment Committee and Board of Trustees. A trusted companion of Professor Yunus, he succeeded him as Managing Director of Grameen Bank in 2011 and has served on the boards of several social enterprises established under Professor Yunus's leadership.

His tireless dedication, leadership, and passion for creating lasting social change have left a deep and lasting impact. Mr. Shahjahan's legacy will continue to inspire each of us at the Foundation as we strive to further his mission of empowering communities and improving lives.

We extend our sincere condolences to his family, friends, and colleagues, especially those who had the privilege of working alongside him. We are deeply grateful for his remarkable contributions and will honor his memory by continuing the important work to which he dedicated his life.

Rest in peace, Mr. Shahjahan. You will always be missed and remembered.

 

 

 

Publication of the 2024 Integrated Report

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The 2024 edition of Grameen Crédit Agricole's integrated report has just been published, you can now discover the highlights of the year:

As of December 31, 2024, the Foundation managed €82 million in outstanding loans for 67 microfinance institutions and 8 social enterprises in 36 countries. Women's entrepreneurship and the development of rural economies remain at the heart of its work: 75% of the 6.7 million beneficiaries are women and 76% live in rural areas.

Our ambitions are part of an environment marked by climate change and the digital boom.

Download the Report 

How does the reduction in international aid impact your work? We want your opinion.

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French version below ⬇
English version below ⬇
Spanish version continued ⬇

 

How does the reduction in international aid impact your work? Share your experiences, challenges and adaptations.

This survey is being undertaken by Grameen Crédit Agricole in partnership with CERISE+SPTF and the Financial Inclusion Equity Council (FIEC), two networks that bring together many field actors among their members.

It aims to assess the impact on the financial inclusion sector of the reduction and redefinition of international aid following the decrease in the contribution of the United States and other countries to development programs around the world.

Although inclusive finance is essentially based on self-reliance, financial service providers (FSPs) and a large proportion of their clients and beneficiaries may depend directly or indirectly on aid-supported programs in the areas of economic stability, access to essential services in health, education, infrastructure and energy.

The survey will take 5 to 10 minutes of your time. You can complete it until August 18. We will share the results by October 2025. Thank you for your contribution!

Start the survey

 

International aid [1] has been reduced since 2024 (source: OECD, June 2025) and even more drastically following the abrupt cessation of USAID (falling from programs worth $120 billion in January 2025 to $69 billion in May 2025 (source: NY Times, June 2025). “There is not a single area of development and humanitarian assistance in which USAID has not been involved,” said Abby Maxman, President and CEO of Oxfam America. In this vein, many countries are cutting their foreign aid budgets.

[1] International aid is defined as assistance, support, or resources provided by a country, international organization, or non-governmental entity to another country or population in need. It is often coordinated by multilateral organizations such as the United Nations, the World Bank, or regional bodies, as well as bilateral agreements between countries.

——————————————————————-

How has the reduction in international aid impacted your work? Share your experiences, challenges, or adaptations

This survey is initiated by Grameen Crédit Agricole in partnership with CERISE+SPTF and the Financial Inclusion Equity Council (FIEC), two networks which bring together many field practitioners among their members.

It aims at assessing the impact on the financial inclusion sector of the downsizing and redefinition of international assistance following the USA and other countries' aid contribution shrinkage to development programs worldwide.

Even though inclusive finance is essentially based on self-sustainability, Financial Services Providers (FSPs) and many of their clients may rely directly or indirectly on aid-supported programs in the areas of economic stability, access to essential services in health, education, infrastructure and energy.

The survey will take 5 to 10 minutes of your time. You can answer it until August 18th. We will share the results with you by October 2025. Thank you for contributing!

Start the Survey

 

International assistance[1] has been reduced since 2024 (source: OECD, June 2025) and even more dramatically following the USAID abrupt shutdown (from programs worth 120 bn USD in Jan 2025 down to 69 bn USD in May 2025 (source: NY Times, June 2025). “There is not a single area of development and humanitarian assistance USAID has not been involved in,” said Oxfam America's President and CEO Abby Maxman. Following this path, many countries are reducing their budget dedicated to foreign aid.

[1] International assistance is understood as aid, support, or resources provided by one country, international organization, or non-governmental entity to another country or population in need. often coordinated through multilateral organizations like the United Nations, the World Bank, or regional bodies, as well as through bilateral agreements between countries.

——————————————————————-

 

How has the reduction of the international industry impacted your work?  Compare our experiences, disappointments and adaptations.

This investigation was initiated by Grameen Crédit Agricole in its association with CERISE+SPTF and the Financial Inclusion Equity Council (FIEC), which has many of its members joining us.

This objective is to evaluate the impact in the sector of financial inclusion of the reduction and redefinition of international assistance, through the reduction of the contribution of EE.UU. and other countries to download programs all over the world.

Not all inclusive finances are based primarily on self-sustainability, financial service providers (PSF) and many of our clients and beneficiaries may depend directly or indirectly on programs supported by the availability of economic stability or access to services. essential for access to health, education, infrastructure and energy.

The encuesta will take 5 to 10 minutes to wait. You can respond until 18 August. The results of the survey will be reported in October 2025. Thanks for your contribution!

Inicia la encuesta

 

International assistance [1] will be reduced from 2024 (source: OECD, June 2025) there is a more dramatic drop in USAID's program (from programs worth 120 million USD in energy from 2025 to 69 million USD in May 2025 (source: NY Times, June 2025). “There is only one area of relief and humanitarian assistance where USAID has not been involuted,” says Abby Maxman, President and CEO of Oxfam America. If you follow this trend, many of the landscapes are reduced on the assumption dedicated to the exterior door.

[1] International assistance is understood as the country, the support or the resources provided by a country, an international organization or a non-governmental entity in another country or necessary population, a menu coordinated through multilateral organizations such as the United Nations, and Banco Mundial and regional organizations, as well as bilateral contacts between countries.

Journey to the heart of impact: what is the story of Grameen Crédit Agricole?

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At the house of Grameen Agricultural Credit, we believe that local financial inclusion can and must be a powerful lever for social transformation. It is this strong commitment to sustainable impact that we wanted to illustrate through this video, which brings our mission to life, on the ground, as close as possible to our partners who support women entrepreneurs and vulnerable populations.

Far from abstract discourse, this film immerses you in the daily lives of those who, thanks to a tailored financial service, improve their future. Because behind every professional project supported, there is a person, an ambition, a fight against economic and social inequality.

Our mission?

Promoting women's empowerment through tailored financial services and supporting female entrepreneurship, for, by and with women.

And this involves the deployment of concrete, financial, technical and global local solutions in developing territories to resolve global problems by collaborating with actors rooted in the realities on the ground. (personalized support, technical assistance, listening to local realities, capacity building.)

We financemicrofinance institutions and social enterprises so that they can, in turn, support women in their quest for economic independence. Together, we build sustainable, humane, and impactful solutions.

Because beyond the numbers, it's the stories, the journeys, the successes that count.

 

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