Innovative financing for agribusiness and renewable energies

Anchored in the territories in which it operates, Societe Generale is convinced that the development of agricultural sectors and access to electricity are two major issues on the African continent. Driven by the needs of local stakeholders, the Bank wishes to put its expertise and its ability to mobilize partners at the service of the development of these key development factors. Supporting agricultural sectors and energy inclusion require multiple skills that Societe Generale wishes to federate around concrete projects, with measurable impacts.

Societe Generale is committed to strengthening its support for the agricultural sector and the blue economy

The agricultural sector contributes to a major part of the wealth produced on the continent and is the primary source of employment. For a long time, Societe Generale has been the banking partner of many local and international players in the sector, attentive to the sustainable development of Africa. The Group aims to continue this commitment by providing  efficient and inclusive financial solutions that address the challenges of agricultural value chains and as a credible partner for initiatives that promote the sustainable use of natural resources. In this respect, Societe Generale is committed to:

Facilitating the strengthening of value chains through the provision of financing tools and the digitalisation of flows

We would like to develop innovative financing models for farmers within the framework of structuring agricultural sectors by relying on large exporting clients (predictive models in particular). This could involve, for example, the development of mobile money solutions for farmers with external partners.

Better contributing to the construction of a virtuous ecosystem of non-financial support for the growth of the sector's actors

By establishing partnerships and entering into coalitions with players in the agricultural sector to contribute to the structuring of sustainable agricultural sectors, particularly in the form of Nature Based Solutions, and by identifying and approaching players or partners who can provide complementary solutions (capital, cover, training, digital platforms, etc.).

Positioning itself to be a major player in the blue economy and biodiversity

Societe Generale wishes to offer solutions for monetising related carbon credits, and in particular the decarbonisation of the maritime sector. It also wishes to support environmental preservation initiatives (biodiversity of the maritime space, coastal resilience to climate change).

Societe Generale wants to support energy inclusion, including in non-connected areas

Access to electricity is steadily increasing in the urban areas of African countries where Societe Generale operates. There are many solutions, from extending connections to national grids to building mini-grids and installing individual solar systems. Societe Generale is a stakeholder in this movement and is committed to promoting access to the electricity network and supporting energy inclusion by encouraging renewable sources (solar, but also hydraulic, wind and biomass), including in areas that are not connected.