Agriculture in West Africa faces a persistent challenge: smallholder farmers struggle to access the financial services they need to grow their businesses and improve their livelihoods. In Benin, this reality has kept countless producers trapped in cycles of low productivity and limited market access.
But what if there was a proven way to bridge the gap between financial institutions and farmer organizations- one that benefits everyone involved?
This case study examines how GIZ’s Global Project for the Promotion of Agricultural Finance (PG ProFinA) transformed agricultural lending in Benin through a deceptively simple innovation: strategic deployment of agricultural advisors.
These advisors don’t just provide technical support-they serve as trusted intermediaries between Professional Agricultural Organizations (OPAs) and Financial Service Providers (FSPs), creating the confidence needed for sustainable lending relationships.
The case study doesn’t shy away from addressing critical sustainability questions. As project support phases out, how can this successful model continue? The research identifies key challenges around retaining agricultural advisors and explores innovative solutions, including advisor certification programs and new financing mechanisms.
This summary only scratches the surface of the rich insights contained in the complete case study. The full report includes detailed operational frameworks, specific recommendations for different stakeholder groups, and lessons learned that can inform similar initiatives across Africa and beyond.
This case study was developed by Mr. PADONOU Guigonou Freddy Pierre, Agricultural Economist and Independent Consultant, with support from the AMEA network in collaboration with GIZ.
For all the latest about our work and updates about our partners, signup for our newsletter.
EN 
FR