OPEC Fund backs SME growth in Democratic Republic of the Congo with first private sector loan to Rawbank

March 4, 2026: The OPEC Fund for International Development (the OPEC Fund) has signed its first private sector operation in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC), providing a US$20 million loan to Rawbank, the country's leading financial institution. The financing will expand access to credit for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), strengthen financial inclusion and accelerate sustainable private sector growth. The OPEC Fund's loan forms part of a US$265 million financing package arranged by the International Finance Cooperation (IFC) and supported by multiple lenders.

OPEC Fund President Abdulhamid Alkhalifa said:

"This partnership reflects the OPEC Fund's commitment to advancing private sector development and financial inclusion in Africa. By supporting Rawbank, we are helping expand access to finance for SMEs in the DRC - businesses that drive employment, strengthen value chains and contribute to more diversified and resilient economic growth."

The financing will enable Rawbank to expand lending to SMEs and strategic corporates in key sectors such as telecommunications, agriculture and fast-moving consumer goods. It will also strengthen the bank's capacity in climate finance and agri-finance, while supporting women-led businesses and advancing financial inclusion through targeted technical assistance.

Access to credit remains limited in the DRC, with private sector credit accounting for a small share of GDP. SMEs represent the vast majority of businesses in the country but face substantial constraints in accessing formal financing. The OPEC Fund's participation in the loan facility will help diversify Rawbank's funding base and support the provision of medium-term financing that is scarce in the domestic market.

The total US$265 million financing package includes a US$50 million loan from IFC, the World Bank's private sector arm, a US$50 million loan from Proparco, a US$25 million loan from British International Investment, a US$20 million loan from the OPEC Fund; and a US$20 million loan from eco.business Fund. In parallel, IFC and Rawbank are launching a US$100 million risk-sharing facility to further scale SME lending.

The OPEC Fund has been partnering with the DRC since 1977, supporting projects in agriculture, water and sanitation, transport, health, education and financial sector development. This first private sector operation in the country marks an important step in deepening the OPEC Fund's engagement to promote inclusive growth and strengthen economic resilience.

About the OPEC Fund

The OPEC Fund for International Development (the OPEC Fund) is the only globally mandated development institution that provides financing from member countries to non-member countries exclusively. The organization works in cooperation with developing country partners and the international development community to stimulate economic growth and social progress in low- and middle-income countries around the world. The OPEC Fund was established in 1976 with a distinct purpose: to drive development, strengthen communities and empower people. Our work is people-centered, focusing on financing projects that meet essential needs, such as food, energy, infrastructure, employment (particularly relating to MSMEs), clean water and sanitation, healthcare and education. To date, the OPEC Fund has committed more than US$32 billion to development projects in over 125 countries with an estimated total project cost of more than US$240 billion. The OPEC Fund is rated AA+/Outlook Stable by Fitch and AA+, Outlook Stable by S&P. Our vision is a world where sustainable development is a reality for all.