Project Snapshot: DFCD and MM Lekker

This disclosure notice summarises SNV’s support to MM Lekker, a Beninese agribusiness company working to strengthen climate-resilient and traceable agricultural supply chains through its network of more than 5,000 smallholder farmers. Building on its rapid commercial growth and established sourcing model, the company aggregates soybeans, cashew nuts, shea nuts and other agricultural commodities for domestic and regional processors. Through this project, MM Lekker aims to develop a more climate-resilient, digitally enabled and investment-ready sourcing model, beginning with the soybean value chain, to improve farmer resilience, supply chain performance and food security.

Operating in a least developed country increasingly affected by climate change, the project addresses challenges including declining soil fertility, erratic rainfall, post-harvest losses and growing market demands for traceability and responsible sourcing. The initiative combines climate-resilient farmer advisory services, digital traceability through the MM Lekker Connect platform, and strengthened environmental, social and gender (E&S/GESI) systems to improve productivity, reduce losses and prepare the company for future investment. Particular attention will be given to supporting smallholder farmers, women and youth, while strengthening responsible sourcing practices and building a more resilient agricultural value chain.

The project is supported by a €150,000 grant from the DFCD Origination Facility, complemented by €50,000 in co-financing from MM Lekker, with an anticipated €2 million in leveraged debt financing. By strengthening climate-resilient agricultural production, digital traceability and investment readiness, the project aims to expand opportunities for thousands of smallholder farmers, improve food security and rural livelihoods, and mobilise additional commercial finance for sustainable agriculture in Benin.