European Investment Bank Advances 110 Million USD for Ethiopia's Rural Finance

Addis Ababa, October 17, 2025 (ENA)—Ethiopia has secured 110 million USD from the European Investment Bank (EIB) for its third phase of the Rural Financial Intermediation Program.

The funding was secured following Finance Minister Ahmed Shide’s high-level bilateral meetings with senior officials from the European Union (EU) Commission and the EIB.

 In a press release Ministry of Finance issued today, the meetings took place on the sidelines of the Annual Meetings of the World Bank and the International Monetary Fund (IMF).

 The Minister held discussions with Marjeta Jäger, Deputy Director-General of the EU Directorate-General for International Partnerships, focusing  on strengthening cooperation in strategic regional infrastructure corridors, supporting ongoing reform programs, and aligning initiatives with Ethiopia’s key national priorities.

 He also met with Thouraya Triki, Director for International Partnerships at the European Investment Bank (EIB).

 Ahmed commended EIB's continued support for Ethiopia’s development agenda, particularly in small and medium enterprise (SME) financing, water, sanitation, and hygiene (WASH), and women’s entrepreneurship development.

 The Minister specifically noted priority areas for future EIB engagement, including the Rural Inclusive and Sustainable Economic Development Initiative and financing for the manufacturing sector.

 In response, EIB committed 110 million USD for the third phase of the Rural Financial Intermediation Program (RUFIP III).

 This flagship initiative is aimed at expanding access to finance in rural areas, promoting financial inclusion, and supporting Ethiopia’s broader agricultural transformation efforts.

 The engagement underscores the shared commitment of the Government of Ethiopia and European Union institutions to deepening their partnership in promoting sustainable and inclusive development, fostering private sector growth, and accelerating economic transformation.