The Plateforme d'appui au secteur privé et à la valorisation de la diaspora (PLASEPRI 2) has provided a financing package of 623,847,350 FCFA to the Mutuelle d'épargne et de crédit (MEC) Dynamics de Kédougou. This funding aims to boost local economic activities, improve living conditions for beneficiaries, and contribute to the fight against irregular migration. The initiative focuses on supporting small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in the Kedougou region.
The financing package consists of three refinancing operations. The first tranche of over 198 million FCFA benefited 19 entrepreneurs, while the second tranche of 153 million FCFA supported 16 entrepreneurs. The third tranche of 272.4 million FCFA was allocated to 32 entrepreneurs. This funding will enable local businesses to develop their economic activities and create jobs.
In addition to providing financial support, the PLASEPRI 2 program also focuses on capacity building for entrepreneurs. A total of 49 beneficiaries have undergone training in financial education, covering topics such as resource management, expense planning, cash management, and debt management. This training aims to equip entrepreneurs with the necessary skills to manage their businesses effectively.
According to Alioune Dione, the Minister of Microfinance and Social and Solidarity Economy, the program has strengthened the intervention capacities of MEC Dynamics and facilitated access to adapted financial resources for local entrepreneurs. The initiative is expected to improve incomes and living conditions for beneficiaries, while also promoting the education of children, particularly girls.
The fight against irregular migration is also a key objective of the PLASEPRI 2 program. By supporting productive activities and job creation, the initiative aims to provide local populations with better economic prospects. The MEC Dynamics applies an interest rate of 8% on the line dedicated to financing investment projects.
The program has also contributed to the recovery of MEC Dynamics, which was previously facing difficulties. Alioune Dione invited beneficiaries to apply the knowledge acquired during their training to consolidate the viability of their businesses and perpetuate the jobs created.
As part of the initiative, Alioune Dione conducted several field visits, including to MEC Dynamics, a sewing workshop owned by Alla Badara Sall, an agricultural farm in Fadiga, and a poultry farm in the village of Samécouta. The PLASEPRI 2 program aims to make productive activity financing a lever for economic and social development in the Kedougou region.
Key points
- The PLASEPRI 2 program has mobilized 623.8 million FCFA to support local SMEs in the Kedougou region.
- The program provides financing and capacity building for entrepreneurs, focusing on financial education and resource management.
- The initiative aims to improve living conditions, promote education, and combat irregular migration in the region.
