TOGO: The AfDB supports women at the PAIFFV initiative

The PAIFFV initiative in Togo, launched by the African Development Bank (AfDB), has exceeded expectations by reaching over 13,500 vulnerable women with 15,251 disbursed loans.

With a funding of over $990,248, the project facilitated the establishment of 8,072 micro-enterprises, demonstrating an average profitability of 26.5%.

Each business also contributed to creating 1.2 jobs, fostering economic growth and stability within local communities.

Approved in 2016, PAIFFV is a cornerstone of Togo’s socio-economic development program, designed to assist vulnerable groups, especially disabled women, survivors of trafficking and sexual exploitation, and single mothers.

With a total investment of $2.08 million, the project received $531,024 from the African Development Fund, the concessional window of the African Development Bank Group, and $1.32 million from the Transition Support Facility, the Bank’s instrument for countries in situations of fragility and conflict. The Togolese government also contributed $225,685 in counterpart funds.

The project aims to empower vulnerable women and strengthen their role in economic activities, prioritizing small producers and recognizing their essential contributions to agro-pastoral production.

Implemented between 2016 and 2022, PAIFFV aligned with the Bank’s strategies, particularly its «High 5» operational priorities of «Feed Africa» and «Improve the quality of life for the African people», as well as the government’s plans to reduce social disparities.

It also contributed to combating unemployment, especially among Togolese women and youth.

According to the government, women are disproportionately affected by humanitarian crises and natural disasters, emphasizing the urgency of inclusive interventions.

In partnership with the Togolese government, the African Development Bank continues to promote gender equality and inclusive finance through various projects.

Chantal TAWELESSI