IMF Reaches Preliminary $203 Million Financing Deal with Niger

The International Monetary Fund has reached a preliminary agreement with Niger for a 38-month Extended Credit Facility that could provide the country with approximately $203 million over three years.

The agreement was reached during discussions in Niamey and is intended to support Niger’s economic reforms. It remains subject to approval by the IMF Executive Board before it can be implemented.

Support for development strategy

The IMF said the proposed programme would help reinforce macroeconomic stability and preserve progress made through reforms. It is also expected to support implementation of Niger’s 2025-29 development strategy.

Julia Bersch, head of the IMF delegation, said: “The new ECF-supported program will consolidate macroeconomic stability and reform achievements, and support implementation of the government’s ambitious 2025-29 development strategy.”

The IMF said Niger’s existing ECF-supported programme had helped the country maintain macroeconomic stability despite what it described as exceptional economic shocks.

Growth outlook and risks

The Fund expects Niger’s economy to expand by seven percent this year and by nearly the same rate in 2027. It said agriculture and oil exports are expected to contribute to the country’s growth.

However, the IMF warned that security and climate-related shocks pose significant risks to Niger’s economic outlook. Jihadist attacks are a regular occurrence in the country, according to the source.

The proposed financing is therefore not yet final. Niger would receive the funds only after the IMF’s Executive Board approves the preliminary agreement.