Cotonou, Benin — December 2025: The African Development Bank (AfDB) has approved a €102 million loan to support poultry meat production in Benin’s savannah region, marking one of the country’s largest agribusiness investments in recent years.
The program, part of the Savannah Region Agricultural Development Initiative, will integrate maize, soybean, and poultry value chains to improve productivity, reduce import dependency, and enhance food sovereignty.
Key Benefits
- Direct beneficiaries: 50,000 farmers, processors, and entrepreneurs.
- Indirect beneficiaries: 500,000 people, including 30% women and youth.
- Infrastructure: New feed mills, hatcheries, and cold-chain facilities to reduce post-harvest losses.
- Employment: Thousands of jobs expected in farming, processing, and distribution.
Expert Commentary
AfDB Vice President for Agriculture, Dr. Beth Dunford, stated:
“This investment will transform Benin’s poultry sector, strengthen food security, and create sustainable livelihoods.”
Local analysts note that poultry is one of Benin’s fastest-growing protein sources, and the project could reduce reliance on imports from neighboring countries.
Implications
- Short-term: Boost in poultry feed production and farm-level employment.
- Medium-term: Expansion of domestic poultry supply, lowering consumer prices.
- Long-term: Enhanced food sovereignty and resilience against external shocks.
