Access to Credit for Women Traders in Côte d’Ivoire

Context

Limited access to financing is a major challenge, especially for small, individually run businesses. The barriers are even greater for women entrepreneurs. In this project in Côte d’Ivoire, Socodevi worked to provide women traders with access to credit through the MUCREFAB mutual savings and credit co-operative.

The small loans granted allow women members to access equipment needed to transport and sell their products. The income generated from their businesses helps improve living conditions for their families, particularly in terms of food security and the health of children and youth.

A Closer Look at the Project

Description

Founded in 1994, MUCREFAB received technical, organizational, and financial support from Socodevi for several years. Thanks to the coaching and financial education training provided, women members of MUCREFAB are able to continue running their activities — even though Socodevi is no longer present today. This is a great example of a sustainable success that continues to strengthen women’s economic power.

Results

In Côte d’Ivoire, more than 24,000 women are now recognized entrepreneurs within their communities. Supported by nine savings and credit co-operatives, they have already entrusted over CAD 4.5 million in deposits—a powerful lever that has increased loans granted to women traders, expanded member-owned shops, and boosted the export of their goods. The result: a growing local economy, diversified incomes, and greater financial autonomy for families.

Project Partners

  • REMU-CI (Réseau MUCREFAB Côte d’Ivoire)

Testimonials

“MUCREFAB gave me access to credit. With this loan, I can now have goods delivered by truck. Thanks to my cassava business, I can take care of my children. It is thanks to MUCREFAB that I pay for their schooling. MUCREFAB has helped me a lot.”

  • Djouka Angèle
    Trader and member of MUCREFAB, Côte d’Ivoire

Support women entrepreneurs in Côte d’Ivoire!