Cocoa Processing in Sierra Leone
Build and operate facilities and value chains, including storage and farmer productivity, for the growing and processing of cocoa into products for sale on local and international markets.0
Country
Sierra Leone
Sector
Post-Harvest Management & Processing
Sub-Sector
Farm Technology, Food Processing
Project status
Open
Investment type & structure
Debt Financing, Grants or Subsidies
Average Ticket Size (USD)
USD 1 million – USD 10 million
Indicative return
15% – 20% (in IRR)
Investment timeframe
Medium Term (5–10 years)
Market size
> USD 1 billion
Direct impact
Indirect impact
Summary
This project aims to establish cocoa processing facilities and strengthen the full value chain in Sierra Leone. By shifting from exporting raw beans to producing higher-value processed cocoa, it seeks to boost farmer incomes, create jobs, and increase export revenues. The initiative focuses on improving productivity, storage, and market access for smallholder farmers, addressing major sector gaps such as low yields, limited mechanisation, and lack of finance. With an estimated market potential exceeding USD 1 billion and expected returns of 15–20% IRR, the project aligns with national priorities for agricultural transformation and rural development.