The Ministry of Agriculture, Water, Fisheries, Livestock, and Halieutic Resources of Djibouti, in partnership with the Caisse Populaire d'Épargne et de Crédit de Djibouti-ville and the North Region, has initiated the financing of 50 sub-projects under the first phase of the BREFONS program. This launch event took place on September 23, 2026, at the Caisse Populaire's headquarters. The program aims to support beneficiaries in Djibouti-ville, Arta, Tadjourah, and Obock regions.
The BREFONS program is designed to facilitate access to financing for agro-business initiatives, contributing to the development of a resilient and climate-adapted sector. This partnership with the Caisse Populaire d'Épargne et de Crédit is supported by the African Development Bank (BAD). A total of 107 sub-projects have been selected for financing, with the first phase covering 50 sub-projects and a second phase set to finance 57 additional sub-projects in Ali Sabieh and Dikhil regions.
The financing mechanism provides coverage of up to 90% of sub-project costs, with 40% in the form of a subsidy and 50% as a credit, requiring a minimum 10% personal contribution from beneficiaries. Financing ranges from 500,000 to 1,000,000 FDJ for individual beneficiaries and 1,100,000 to 2,000,000 FDJ for groups. The credits are repayable over 18 months, with the program covering interest to ease the financial burden on beneficiaries.
The program aligns with Djibouti's vision for socio-economic development, particularly in rural areas, and aims to empower women and young people economically. It also seeks to enhance resilience to climate change effects. The Secretary General of the Ministry of Agriculture, Ibrahim Elmi Mohamed, emphasized the importance of responsible use of the financing to develop viable, income-generating, and job-creating activities.
Beneficiaries have expressed satisfaction with the initiative, highlighting its potential to support women and young people in developing sustainable economic activities in the agricultural sector. Aicha Houssein Sougal and Maman Hawa Warsama Guirreh, representing beneficiaries, welcomed the program as a necessary step for their families and communities.
The launch event was attended by key stakeholders, including the Director of the Caisse Populaire d'Épargne et de Crédit, Mohamed Awaleh Miguil, and technical teams from the program and Caisse Populaire. The partnership between the Ministry of Agriculture and the Caisse Populaire d'Épargne et de Crédit underscores the commitment to supporting agro-business development and economic empowerment in Djibouti.
The BREFONS program reflects the government's priorities for sustainable development, economic growth, and climate resilience. By fostering agro-business initiatives, the program is expected to improve living conditions, create economic opportunities, and promote rural entrepreneurship in Djibouti.
Key points
- The program will finance 107 agro-business sub-projects, with 50 already launched in the first phase.
- Beneficiaries will receive financing covering up to 90% of sub-project costs.
- The program aims to empower women and young people economically and enhance resilience to climate change.
