The European Bank for Reconstruction and Development (EBRD) is scaling up its support for sustainable agribusiness in West Africa with a loan of up to US$70 million (€60 million) to Robust International, according to a press release. The funding will strengthen agricultural value chains in Nigeria and Côte d’Ivoire, helping smallholder farmers and processors build more resilient, transparent supply systems.
Established in 2006, Robust International trades and processes key crops such as cashew and sesame across Asia, Africa, and the Middle East. The company recently set up new processing facilities in both countries, underlining its commitment to local value addition and rural job creation. The EBRD financing will be used to bolster working capital needs and expand operations that boost supply chain efficiency and export potential.
As part of the initiative, Robust International will roll out a training program aimed at improving organic certification and compliance. The program focuses on sustainable farming methods, fair-trade procurement, and raising industry standards. It also includes a partnership with local educational institutions to offer paid internships and build technical skills among agricultural students.
EBRD President Odile Renaud-Basso called the loan a “key step in supporting two dynamic economies where agriculture sustains millions of livelihoods.” Anand Patni, CFO of Robust International, added that the partnership “enhances value addition at origin while fostering transparency and long-term sustainability across core commodities.”
The investment follows Côte d’Ivoire and Nigeria’s accession as EBRD shareholders in 2025. The Bank’s focus in both countries centers on critical infrastructure, private-sector modernization, and improved economic governance — all aimed at driving inclusive, sustainable growth in the region.
