Ivory coast launches innovative biochar plant from cashew shells

On June 18, 2026, Ivorian officials inaugurated a groundbreaking biochar production facility in Attinguié, located within the PK 31 industrial zone on the outskirts of Abidjan. The project, spearheaded by Valency International, marks a significant shift in how cashew nut processing waste is perceived—transforming what was once discarded into high-value industrial resources.

The inauguration ceremony was led by the Minister of Commerce, Industry and Crafts, Kalil Konaté, alongside key government representatives, institutional leaders and technical partners. This first-of-its-kind commercial-scale plant in Africa is designed to process 20,000 tons of cashew shells annually—byproducts of the cashew nut industry—producing approximately 6,000 tons of biochar. The facility also generates biofuel and energy through advanced agricultural residue valorization technology.

The new plant underscores Côte d’Ivoire’s commitment to sustainable industrial growth and circular economy principles. By converting cashew shells into biochar, the project not only reduces environmental waste but also creates new economic opportunities within the cashew value chain. Minister Konaté emphasized this transformation during the event, stating, “We are witnessing agricultural byproducts being converted into strategic industrial assets that drive local value creation and promote sustainable industrial practices.”

Following the ribbon-cutting, the Minister toured the facility with executives from Valency International and Revata Carbon, reaffirming the government’s dedication to fostering innovation, job creation and economic expansion through forward-thinking industrial projects.

As the world’s top raw cashew nut producer, Côte d’Ivoire continues to expand its local processing capacity to capture greater economic benefits from the crop. This biochar plant is a strategic step toward achieving that goal, enhancing the country’s industrial competitiveness while promoting eco-friendly manufacturing. The initiative reflects a broader national strategy to build a robust, sustainable cashew industry that maximizes resource efficiency and minimizes environmental impact.