IFC's Priorities in the Middle East and North Africa
Several years after the Arab spring, many countries in the Middle East and North Africa continue to grapple with political uncertainty, slow growth, unemployment, and other economic challenges.
IFC is striving to address these economic issues by supporting the region’s private sector, helping to create jobs and drive sustainable growth.
We work in countries from Morocco to Afghanistan to boost investor confidence, support small-business owners, and develop vital infrastructure projects. Our investments and advice help upgrade farming techniques, combat climate change, improve the investment climate, and help governments cut red tape, among a host of other initiatives.
Focus Areas
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Small and Medium Enterprises
IFC works with banks, industry associations, and governments to help small businesses reach their potential, creating jobs for the people of the Middle East and North Africa.
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Infrastructure and Renewable Energy
IFC supports private sector investments in key infrastructure projects, from wind farms to water treatment plants, improving lives across the region.
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Gender
We work with partners to provide loans, basic managerial training, and a host of other financial services to small businesses owned by women.
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Youth Employability
Through the E4E Initiative for Arab Youth, IFC helps provide young people with training in up-and-coming fields like information technology, tourism, and logistics.
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Regional Integration
IFC encourages industry-leading companies, including those in the Persian Gulf, to branch out into neighboring countries, where their capital and expertise can transform local markets.
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Fragile and Conflict-Affected States
The Middle East and North Africa is home to several fragile and conflict-affected states, and IFC is stepping up its work in many of these countries, helping build a solid foundation for shared prosperity.
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