On June 18, 2026, Ivorian officials inaugurated a cutting-edge biochar production facility in Attinguié, located within the PK 31 industrial zone on the outskirts of Abidjan. The plant, spearheaded by global agribusiness group Valency International, aims to repurpose cashew nut shells—historically treated as industrial waste—into high-value biochar for energy and manufacturing sectors.
The inauguration ceremony was led by the Minister of Trade, Industry, and Crafts, Kalil Konaté, alongside local administrators, institutional leaders, and technical partners. This landmark project marks the first large-scale commercial facility in Africa dedicated to converting cashew processing byproducts into biochar, with an annual capacity to handle 20,000 metric tons of cashew shells. The plant is expected to yield 6,000 metric tons of biochar annually, while also generating biofuel and clean energy through advanced agricultural residue valorization technology.
The initiative aligns with the government’s broader strategy to boost local cashew processing and reduce waste in the industry. By transforming agricultural waste into industrial resources, the project supports sustainable economic growth and creates new revenue streams for local communities.
Speaking at the event, Minister Konaté emphasized the significance of the project, stating, “This facility demonstrates how agricultural byproducts can be converted into strategic industrial assets, fostering local value creation and sustainable industry development.”
Following the inauguration, the minister toured the facility alongside executives from Valency International and Revata Carbon, reaffirming the government’s commitment to supporting innovative industrial ventures that drive job creation and economic progress. As the world’s top producer of raw cashew nuts, Côte d’Ivoire continues to expand its domestic processing capabilities to maximize economic benefits. This biochar plant reinforces the country’s vision of building a high-performance cashew industry while promoting circular economy principles through agricultural residue upcycling.
The launch of this facility not only strengthens Côte d’Ivoire’s position in the global cashew market but also underscores its dedication to sustainable industrial growth.
