Rébecca Defranoux Koubia, an inspiring Chadian entrepreneur

In Chad’s business landscape, Rébecca Defranoux Koubia is an emblematic figure. Managing director of several companies — the Brasserie et Malterie du Tchad (BMT), Imprimerie Koubia, Moringa Tchad and the Côté Jardin restaurant — she embodies the dynamism and resilience of African women entrepreneurs.

She has built a business empire across varied sectors, from food and drink to printing and catering. At the head of the Brasserie et Malterie du Tchad, she helps strengthen local industry, create jobs and support the national economy.

Committed to local development

Through Moringa Tchad, she adds value to local resources and promotes healthy eating. Her commitment to processing local produce — mango, hibiscus, tomato, maize, rice, sorghum — reflects her determination to contribute to the country’s economic and social development.

The challenges facing women entrepreneurs in the Sahel

At the Round Table of Women Entrepreneurs of the Sahel, she highlighted the main obstacles: lack of suitable financing, draconian conditions from local banks, transport and energy constraints, and the exorbitant cost of internet access. She called for more effective guarantee schemes, financing programmes suited to realities on the ground and better integration of intra-African trade.

At the round table, she also discussed project financing, customs duties and intra-African trade with Ms Thiaba Camara Sy, president of WIC Capital.

A pioneer and leader, she shows that with determination, innovation and commitment it is possible to build thriving businesses while contributing to one’s community.