Abidjan, Côte d’Ivoire, September 17, 2025
KeysFinance Partners is pleased to announce its role as financial advisor to Harvest Capital Holding, majority-owned by Ivorian businessman Mr. KONÉ Daouda Soukpafolo, on the acquisition of the 52.89% stake held by the State of Côte d’Ivoire in Versus Bank.
This strategic transaction enables Mr. KONÉ Daouda Soukpafolo, through Harvest Capital Holding, to enter the Ivorian banking sector and further strengthen his contribution to the national economy. For Versus Bank, the support of a long-term shareholder represents an opportunity for transformation and growth, with the ambition to diversify its financial services offering, expand its branch network, and accelerate its digitalization.
The bank will benefit from the new shareholder’s industrial expertise and in-depth knowledge of the Ivorian economic landscape, who has committed to mobilize several billion CFA francs to support Versus Bank’s investment plan and accompany its new phase of growth.
The transaction received approval from the Central Bank of West African States (BCEAO) as well as authorization from the Banking Commission of the West African Monetary Union (WAMU).
Ousmane DEMBELE – CEO, Harvest Capital Holding “The establishment of Harvest Capital Holding reflects our determination to provide Versus Bank with strong and lasting support. Our ambition is to preserve its historic positioning as a partner to SMEs while opening new avenues for growth and innovation. We aim to support the bank’s transformation into a universal institution, able to seize the opportunities offered by the Ivorian economy”.
Jean Michel ETTE – Managing Partner, KeysFinance Partners “We are delighted to have advised Harvest Capital Holding on this landmark transaction, which highlights the dynamism and attractiveness of the Ivorian banking sector. This transaction reflects our commitment to supporting local players in their growth ambition, and confirms our position as a trusted partner to strategic investors operating across the continent”.
Legal advisory to Harvest Capital Holding was provided by Asafo & Co.
About Versus Bank – https://versusbank.ci/
Founded in 2004, Versus Bank is a leading player in the Ivorian banking sector, focused on serving corporates, institutions, and individuals. With a network of six branches, the bank is recognized for its client proximity and tailor-made solutions. Versus Bank is committed to fostering financial inclusion and supporting local economic development through accessible and adapted financial services.
About Harvest Capital Holding
Harvest Capital Holding is an investment holding company active in finance and economic development in Côte d’Ivoire. It is majority-owned by Mr. KONÉ Daouda Soukpafolo, an Ivorian entrepreneur with over forty years of business experience in the country, with a strong local and regional footprint (mainly in agribusiness, infrastructure and services).
About KeysFinance Partners – www.keysfinance.com
Based in Abidjan, KeysFinance Partners is an independent investment bank specializing in mergers and acquisitions, fundraising, and financial advisory across Sub-Saharan Africa. Since its founding in 2014 by Joël CADIER, the firm has advised on numerous M&A and financing transactions in the region, with a cumulative deal value of approximately €1 billion.
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