Ivorian Mining Sector: Smoother Collaboration Between Financial Sector and Local Content Actors Highlighted at Abidjan Workshop

A smoother collaboration between the financial sector and local content actors was the main focus of a workshop held on March 27, 2026, in Abidjan, under the theme: “Building Synergy Between the National Financial Ecosystem and Local Content Policy: A Strategic Lever for SME Growth.”

Jean Michel Akossi, Director of Local Content at the Ministry of Mines, Energy, and Petroleum, emphasized the crucial role of financial institutions in supporting the local content policy, which aims to increase the participation of Ivorian companies in strategic sectors, particularly extractive industries.

He highlighted that banks and insurance companies are key partners in structuring the economic ecosystem. Their involvement helps facilitate access to financing, secure operations, and create an enabling environment for SME development.

According to Jean Michel Akossi, local SMEs must benefit from structured support. They are an essential link in the value chain, and building their skills is a major challenge for the economy. He called for a coordinated approach to make local content a real driver of growth for SMEs, stating:

“The goal is to build an environment where financing, skills, and opportunities mutually reinforce each other.”

However, to effectively support companies in the extractive sector, banks and insurance companies must align with industry standards.

“Financial institutions need to strengthen their tools, adapt their offerings, and elevate their practices to meet the expectations of international partners,” he affirmed.