• IMF extends Niger’s Extended Credit Facility (ECF) program by one year through December 2026.
• IMF approves a $41 million disbursement tied to governance and fiscal reforms.
• Niger’s economy rebounds strongly but faces ongoing security and financial risks.

The International Monetary Fund (IMF) approved a 12-month extension of Niger’s Extended Credit Facility (ECF) program, the Fund announced on July 14. The extension will continue through December 2026 and supports Niger’s ongoing reform efforts.

The IMF granted the extension after completing the seventh review of the ECF program and the third review under the Resilience and Sustainability Trust (RST). The Fund said the extension supports additional reforms to consolidate governance gains, anchor sound fiscal policies, and address extended balance of payments pressures caused by a difficult financial environment.

Along with the program extension, the IMF released an immediate disbursement of $41 million. The Fund praised Niger’s progress in implementing reforms under the RST program, which aim to increase resilience to climate shocks and prepare the country for more climate-related investments.

Niger’s economy showed resilience despite political unrest, conflicts, and severe weather events. The country grew 10.3% in 2024, driven by its extractive sector, and the IMF forecasts a steady 6.6% growth in 2025.

However, the IMF cautioned that uncertainty remains and that Niger faces several risks. These include worsening security problems, tighter international financing conditions, and cuts in development aid.

Niger previously received a total of $275.8 million under the ECF program and $131.5 million under the RST since July 2023. Despite political disruptions, disbursements linked to both programs have continued, totaling $346 million.

 Lydie Mobio