Wifak Bank Officially Joins the European Union's "Adapt" Program and Becomes a Strategic Partner of the Italian Agency for Development Cooperation (AICS)
Pursuing their commitment to sustainability in the fields of agriculture, aquaculture, and fishing in Tunisia, the Italian Agency for Development Cooperation (AICS) and Wifak Bank have signed a memorandum of understanding defining the objectives, contributions, and responsibilities of each party within the Adapt program framework. This partnership aims to strengthen sustainable practices and green economic development by providing innovative and accessible financing solutions to actors in the targeted sectors.
The Adapt Program: A European Union Initiative
The Adapt program, funded by the European Union and implemented by AICS in collaboration with the World Food Programme (WFP), launched the second phase of the Adapt Invest Fund's financial support mechanism on March 18, 2024. With an initial endowment of €25 million, this mechanism aims to encourage and promote private investments in sustainable development in Tunisia's agriculture, aquaculture, and fishing sectors, supporting a more inclusive and green economy. Recognizing the importance of financial institutions in accessing necessary financing for these investments, the program seeks strategic partnerships with Tunisian banks.
A Strategic Partnership for Sustainable Development
"This strategic partnership aims to encourage sustainable practices, strengthen resilience in the face of climate change, and contribute to the prosperity of the sustainable agriculture and fishing sectors," said Mohamed Mellousse, CEO of Wifak Bank. He emphasized the need to develop sustainable, responsible, and inclusive financing to support projects with a positive impact on the environment and society. Wifak Bank thus positions itself as a key player in promoting the green economy, favoring initiatives that address environmental challenges while stimulating economic growth and community well-being.
AICS Welcomes the Partnership
Annamaria Meligrana, Deputy Director of AICS, praised the level of commitment and engagement of Wifak Bank's management and highlighted the importance of this partnership for her agency. She emphasized the role that financial institutions can play in ecological transition and sustainable development in Tunisia, as well as the need to address financial risks posed by climate change, a topic at the heart of international debates.