In line with Banque Misr’s ongoing commitment to sustainability and financial inclusion, Banque Misr announced the signing of a financing agreement with the International Finance Corporation (IFC), a member of the World Bank Group, to expand the Bank’s green portfolio and increase climate-related assets, while enhancing financing directed to micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs) in Egypt, with a particular focus on women-owned businesses.

The agreement was signed by Mr. Hisham Okasha, Chairman and Managing Director of Banque Misr, and Mr. Cheikh Oumar Seydi, IFC Regional Director for North Africa and the Horn of Africa, in the presence of senior officials from both sides.

Under the agreement, Banque Misr will receive financing of up to USD 150 million to expand lending for climate-related projects, with a focus on energy efficiency, green transportation, green buildings, and renewable energy. The facility will also support increased lending to micro, small, and medium enterprises in Egypt, with 20% of the total financing allocated to women-owned businesses, contributing to narrowing the gender finance gap and strengthening women’s participation in economic activity.

Mr. Hisham Okasha, Chairman and Managing Director of Banque Misr, emphasized that the agreement represents a strategic step in reinforcing the Bank’s role as a key driver of green transformation in the Egyptian banking sector and a main supporter of the the micro, small, and medium enterprise sector. The agreement reinforces Banque Misr’s orientation toward a low-carbon economy and the integration of climate risk considerations into its financing activities, in line with the Central Bank of Egypt’s directions and international best practices in sustainable finance, contributing to inclusive and sustainable economic growth.

He noted that Banque Misr places sustainability at the core of its institutional strategy and remains committed to developing innovative financing solutions and tools that empower entrepreneurs and enhance their ability to expand and grow across different economic sectors. He also highlighted the Bank’s efforts to broaden access to financing services across Egypt’s governorates, supporting the spread of sustainable finance and deepening its developmental impact.

Commenting on the agreement, Mr. Cheikh Oumar Seydi, IFC Regional Director for North Africa and the Horn of Africa, stated: “Through this partnership with Banque Misr, we reaffirm our commitment to accelerating the green transition in Egypt while enhancing opportunities for women and the micro, small, and medium enterprise sector.” He added: “By linking climate finance with inclusive growth, IFC is helping create jobs, boost entrepreneurship, and build a more resilient and sustainable economy in Egypt.”