IMF Reaches Preliminary $203 Million Financing Agreement with Niger

The International Monetary Fund has reached a preliminary agreement with Niger for an approximately $203 million financing arrangement intended to support the country’s economic reform programme.

The proposed 38-month Extended Credit Facility was agreed during discussions in Niamey, the IMF said. If approved, it would provide around $203 million over three years.

The arrangement remains subject to consideration and approval by the IMF Executive Board. The IMF did not provide a disbursement schedule for the proposed support.

Support for development strategy

Julia Bersch, head of the IMF delegation, said the proposed programme would build on progress made under the current IMF-supported facility.

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

The IMF said the existing programme had helped Niger preserve macroeconomic stability despite what it described as exceptional economic shocks. The proposed new facility is intended to continue supporting reforms and the implementation of the government’s development strategy.

Growth outlook and risks

The IMF expects Niger’s economy to expand by seven percent this year and by nearly as much in 2027. According to the fund, agriculture and oil exports are expected to help drive that growth.

However, the IMF also warned that Niger’s economic outlook faces significant risks, particularly from security and climate-related shocks. It identified jihadist attacks as a regular occurrence in the country while highlighting security conditions as a major concern.

The preliminary agreement therefore combines planned financial support with continued reform efforts, while its implementation will depend on approval by the IMF’s Executive Board.