The Cadres patriotes républicains de Kiiraay have expressed support for the Senegalese government's budget choices in the 2026 supplementary finance bill (PLFR). In a memorandum, their Commission Économie, Finance and Budget noted that the revised budget aligns with the current economic and financial context. The global economic situation, marked by tensions in the Middle East and rising financing costs, has led to a downward revision of the country's growth forecast to 2.7% from 5% initially projected.
The revised budget takes into account a significant increase in energy subsidies, which have risen from 250 billion FCFA to 790.3 billion FCFA. According to Kiiraay, this increase aims to mitigate the impact of the energy shock on households and businesses. However, this has reduced the state's room for maneuver in financing other public policies. The projected total revenues have been revised downward from 6,188.8 billion FCFA to 5,848.7 billion FCFA, while expenditures have increased from 7,433.9 billion FCFA to 7,583.9 billion FCFA.
The budget deficit has been revised upward to 1,735.2 billion FCFA, representing 7.6% of the country's GDP. Kiiraay argues that this revision is necessary to adapt to the new economic and financial context. However, the organization notes significant discrepancies between the expected revenues from certain measures in the Economic and Social Recovery Plan (PRES) and the amounts now included in the PLFR.
The memorandum also highlights a decline in public investment credits, which have decreased by 555 billion FCFA, from 2,803.9 billion FCFA to 2,248.9 billion FCFA. Kiiraay calls for close monitoring of the projects concerned to distinguish between revisions of credits and possible postponements or cancellations. The organization reiterates its support for the government's economic strategy while emphasizing the need for greater transparency in public commitments.
Kiiraay recommends strengthening the traceability of financing and ensuring the clearance of state arrears to businesses, particularly small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs). The organization believes that the credibility of the recovery strategy depends on the ability to translate announced commitments into verifiable results. The government's budget choices have been influenced by a less favorable economic and financial context than initially anticipated.
The revised budget forecasts a growth rate of 2.7% in 2026, down from 5% initially projected. The Senegalese economy faces significant challenges, including a decline in rainfall and rising energy costs. The government's response includes increased energy subsidies to cushion the impact on households and businesses.
The PLFR has been submitted to the National Assembly for approval. Kiiraay's support for the government's budget choices reflects the organization's commitment to promoting economic recovery and stability in Senegal. The organization's recommendations aim to ensure that the government's economic strategy is implemented effectively and efficiently.
Key points
- Kiiraay supports Senegal's 2026 supplementary finance bill, citing economic and financial constraints.
