IFC guarantees CFAF 2.87 billion loan for ACEP Cameroun
The International Finance Corporation will back a loan from BICEC to the microfinance lender ACEP Cameroun.
The International Finance Corporation (IFC) approved a CFAF 2.87 billion guarantee on October 9, 2026, for a loan from Banque Internationale du Cameroun pour l’Épargne et le Crédit (BICEC) to microfinance institution ACEP Cameroun. This transaction, updated on October 16, has not yet been signed, and no funds have been disbursed. The IFC's original plan in July 2025 was to lend up to $5 million directly to ACEP.
Under the new arrangement, BICEC will provide the loan, with the IFC guaranteeing repayment of up to CFAF 2.87 billion, covering the principal but not interest. If ACEP defaults, the IFC can seek reimbursement directly from the microfinance lender. BICEC, a subsidiary of Moroccan group BCP, already holds a 27% stake in ACEP Cameroun.
The IFC's guarantee aims to support ACEP Cameroun's lending activities. BICEC will act as the lender, with the IFC providing the financial backstop to facilitate the transaction.
Why it mattersCameroonian microfinance institution ACEP Cameroun will receive a guaranteed loan to support its lending activities.