On September 22, 2026, Tunisian Central Bank Governor Fathi Zouhair Nouri emphasized the need to establish an African monetary union to foster economic stability and cooperation across the continent. Speaking at the 48th annual meetings of the Association of African Central Banks in Nairobi, Kenya, Nouri highlighted the importance of collective action to address economic shocks and promote financial integration. The meetings took place from September 16 to 18, 2026.
The 48th annual meetings of the Association of African Central Banks brought together governors and deputy governors of African central banks, high-ranking government officials, and representatives from international monetary organizations. As the president of the North African sub-region within the Association of African Central Banks for 2025-2026, Governor Nouri participated in the ordinary meeting of the Association's office and the 48th ordinary meeting of the Board of Governors. The discussions focused on enhancing monetary cooperation, deepening economic integration, and implementing the African Monetary Institute.
Governor Nouri's call for an African monetary union is built on the principles of promoting collective resilience, stability, and cooperation among African economies. He stressed that this union would be a crucial step towards achieving a more advanced level of monetary integration. The Association's meetings also covered the implementation of the African Monetary Cooperation Program, the progress of establishing the African Monetary Institute, and collaboration between African central banks and their international partners.
On the sidelines of the meetings, Governor Nouri participated in a symposium on "African Monetary Integration and Fiscal Sovereignty: Strategic Prospects for Reducing Dependence on International Institutions." The discussions explored ways to enhance Africa's financial autonomy, deepen monetary integration, and strengthen cooperation among central banks. Nouri also attended the inaugural meeting of the African Monetary Institute's Board of Directors, where he was elected as a member.
As part of the 60th-anniversary celebrations of the Central Bank of Kenya, Governor Nouri participated in an international conference on the challenges and prospects of artificial intelligence in the financial sector and central banks. The conference, held on September 16, 2026, featured a session on "Generative Artificial Intelligence, Data Governance, and Institutional Artificial Intelligence in Central Banks." Nouri's participation highlighted the importance of addressing the challenges associated with integrating artificial intelligence into central banking activities.
Through his participation in these meetings, the Central Bank of Tunisia reaffirmed its commitment to promoting cooperation among African central banks, enhancing the continent's monetary and financial resilience, and supporting a gradual and well-structured African integration process. The Bank's efforts aim to foster a more stable and prosperous economic environment for African countries.
The Association of African Central Banks' meetings and related events provided a platform for stakeholders to discuss pressing issues, share knowledge, and explore opportunities for collaboration. As the continent continues to navigate complex economic challenges, the importance of collective action and cooperation among African central banks and governments has become increasingly evident.
Key points
- Tunisian Central Bank Governor Fathi Zouhair Nouri calls for the creation of an African monetary union to promote economic stability and cooperation.
