Our history and DNA
SOFRECO's beginnings in agrifood in Côte d'Ivoire
Founded in the 1970s, SOFRECO (“Société Française de Réalisation, d'Études et de Conseil”) was conceived as a means of achieving the independence of its founder, an engineer specialised in the design of industrial complexes.
The first contract was signed in 1976 in Côte d'Ivoire for the construction of the Borotou sugar complex – an ambitious project comprising six sugar mills. This project immediately stood out for its innovative approach, particularly through the introduction of cogeneration technology, which recovers by-products from sugar cane extraction to produce energy. This not only powers the factory and the plantation irrigation system, but also supplies electricity to the national grid.
This initial success marked the beginning of our recognised expertise in agrifood, especially in West Africa’s sugar industry.
Sustained growth and constant diversification
The first industrial projects in Côte d'Ivoire marked the start of a constantly evolving adventure, gradually expanding into new sectors and continents.
Over the decades, the company has expanded and diversified its areas of expertise, initially focusing on agriculture and agrochemicals before venturing into sectors as varied as mining, steel and metallurgy, chemical industries, energy, transport, the environment, education and training, health, governance, and economic development. The company has also gradually expanded its activities in Central and North Africa, Central and Eastern Europe, Asia, and Latin America, building on its multidisciplinary approach and ability to operate in complex environments.
SOFRECO's strategic diversification, backed by a successful track record, has established the company as a leading technical partner for major international funding agencies, governments, and industrial clients.
From SOFRECO to Ginger SOFRECO
In the 1990s, SOFRECO broadened its scope by acquiring Conseil Santé. This company became a SOFRECO subsidiary specialising in the health and social protection sector.
In 2009, SOFRECO reinforced its commitment to development by establishing the Perspective Institute, a training centre dedicated to the capacity strengthening of public and institutional personnel in African countries through ongoing education. With its catalogue of training courses and tailor-made educational programmes, the Institute aims to support the improvement of public service management, policy implementation and reform management at its own level.
In 2023, a new strategic milestone was reached with SOFRECO's integration into the Ginger group. This alliance strengthens its position as a leading player in engineering and consulting for sustainable development on a global scale.
50 years dedicated to development, to meet tomorrow's challenges
With more than 3,000 projects completed in 150 countries across five continents, Ginger SOFRECO is now one of Europe's leading players in international development cooperation.
After five decades in business, the company continues to grow and innovate, keeping its focus firmly on the future. It plays a key role in major transitions – ecological, social, economic and political – through its two areas of activity: international development cooperation and industrial project development, its core business since the beginning.
