The Nigerien Minister of Economy and Finance, Mamane Laouali Abdou Rafa, announced on October 8, 2026, that the country's economy is performing well, with a growth rate of 7%, negative inflation, and a consolidated financial sector. This announcement was made after a meeting with the Prime Minister, Ali Mahaman Lamine Zeine, and a delegation from the International Monetary Fund (IMF) led by Julia Bersch, the Chief Mission Officer for Africa.
The IMF delegation visited Niamey from September 28 to October 7, 2026, to review Niger's economic and financial program. The review aimed to assess the country's progress in implementing economic reforms and to discuss the next steps in the program. According to Minister Mamane Laouali Abdou Rafa, the IMF delegation was satisfied with the results of the review, which showed that Niger's macroeconomic and financial situation continues to improve.
The Minister of Economy and Finance attributed the positive results to the reforms implemented as part of the Refondation de la République program launched by President of the Republic, Chef de l’État. He emphasized that the IMF delegation appreciated the progress made by Niger and that an agreement was reached on the technical level regarding the review of the economic program.
Julia Bersch, the Chief Mission Officer for Africa at the IMF, praised the Nigerien government's efforts in implementing economic reforms, stating that the country's macroeconomic plan is "very good" and "very favorable." She also expressed the IMF's willingness to support the government's efforts.
The review of Niger's economic program is an important step in the country's efforts to improve its economic management and to achieve sustainable growth. The IMF's support is crucial in this process, as it provides the country with access to financial resources and technical assistance.
The Nigerien government's efforts to implement economic reforms have been ongoing, with a focus on improving the business environment, increasing transparency, and promoting good governance. These efforts have been recognized by the IMF and other international partners, who have expressed their support for Niger's economic development.
The positive results of the review are a significant achievement for Niger, which has faced several challenges in recent years, including security and humanitarian crises. The country's economic improvement is a testament to the government's commitment to implementing reforms and promoting economic development.
Key points
- Niger's economy shows improvement with a 7% growth rate and negative inflation.
- The IMF delegation was satisfied with the results of the review of Niger's economic program.
- The Nigerien government's efforts to implement economic reforms have been recognized by the IMF and other international partners.
