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According to bank provided information, the operation consists in up to EUR 40m Single Signature Single Risk (SSSR) Multiple Beneficiary Intermediated Loans (MBILs) to Vista Group's banking subsidiaries in Guinea and Sierra Leone.
Through the MBILs, Vista Gui in Guinea (EUR 30m) and to Vista Bank (SL) in Sierra Leone (EUR 10m) will have the capacity to on-lend to eligible small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) and mid-caps active in agriculture value chains. These businesses will have a positive impact on youth employment, gender equality, and women's economic empowerment.
The stated aim is to enhance access to finance for agricultural value chain SMEs and mid-caps, while also supporting the European Union's key priorities in both countries.
Under this operation, a minimum of 70% of the loan amounts will target agriculture value chains, including key sectors identified by EU Delegations. These include cashew, infant food (and its ingredients), fruit and vegetable processing, and rice value chains across both countries. Additionally, country-specific priorities will be addressed, such as fish and seafood processing, as well as cereals like fonio and rice in Guinea, and cocoa, palm oil, cassava, and coffee in Sierra Leone.
Furthermore, at least 30% of the total loan amounts will be directed toward businesses that are owned, run, employ, or primarily serve women, in alignment with the 2X Challenge criteria. A minimum of 50% will be specifically aimed at businesses led or founded by young entrepreneurs or those employing at least 40% young people.
| Private Actor 1 | Private Actor 1 Role | Private Actor 1 Sector | Relation | Private Actor 2 | Private Actor 2 Role | Private Actor 2 Sector |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| - | - | - | - | VISTA BANK (SL) LTD | Client | Finance |
| - | - | - | - | Vista Bank Group | Parent Company | Finance |
| - | - | - | - | VISTA GUI SA | Client | Finance |
*Contact information not provided at the time of disclosure*
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You can submit an information request for project information at: https://www.eib.org/en/infocentre/registers/request-form/request-form-default.htm
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