The Support to the Financial Sector and Access to MSME Finance Project aims to unlock lending to viable businesses, support job creation and reinforce financial institutions affected by recent disruptions.
According to the Bank, around 7 500 MSMEs are expected to benefit directly from the initiative, including women‑led firms and enterprises investing in climate‑resilient activities. The project is projected to create or maintain an estimated 58 000 jobs.
Niger’s private sector has been under growing pressure due to difficult macroeconomic conditions and strain within the banking system. Several commercial banks and microfinance institutions face liquidity shortages, while weaknesses in public sector banks and limited credit availability have curtailed private‑sector growth. These challenges have significantly reduced the ability of lenders to meet demand for working capital and investment financing.
“This project is about restoring confidence and unlocking opportunity for Nigerien entrepreneurs,” said Johan A. Mistiaen, World Bank Country Manager for Niger. “By combining liquidity support, risk‑sharing tools and hands‑on technical assistance, the operation will help viable MSMEs access financing to invest, protect jobs and expand.”
The project includes measures to support financial institutions through improved liquidity and risk‑sharing mechanisms, helping banks extend more credit to small businesses. It will also strengthen institutional capacity and improve MSME access to both financial and non‑financial services, such as training and advisory support.
To ensure flexibility in times of crisis, the initiative incorporates a Contingent Emergency Response Component that can be activated for rapid funding. A monitoring and evaluation system will accompany implementation to ensure effective delivery and accountability.
The operation is part of broader efforts to modernise Niger’s financial sector, stimulate private‑sector activity and create conditions conducive to entrepreneurship and investment. The World Bank says strengthening financial intermediation and improving access to finance will be critical for the country’s economic resilience and long‑term development.
–World Bank/Channel Africa–
