The International Monetary Fund (IMF) has reached a preliminary agreement with Niger for a financial package worth about $203 million over three years to support the country’s economic reforms and development plans.
The agreement on the 38-month Extended Credit Facility (ECF) was reached following discussions in Niamey, Niger’s capital, but remains subject to approval by the IMF’s Executive Board.
In a statement on Thursday, the IMF said the existing programme had helped Niger maintain macroeconomic stability despite exceptional economic shocks.
The new programme is expected to consolidate progress made under the current arrangement and support the implementation of the government’s 2025–2029 development strategy.
“The new ECF-supported programme will consolidate macroeconomic stability and reform achievements, and support implementation of the government’s ambitious 2025-29 development strategy,” said Julia Bersch, head of the IMF delegation.
The Fund projected that Niger’s economy would grow by seven per cent in 2026 and expand at a nearly similar rate in 2027, driven largely by agricultural production and oil exports.
However, it warned that the country’s economic outlook remained exposed to significant risks, particularly insecurity and climate-related shocks.
Jihadist attacks remain a recurring threat in Niger, while climate challenges could disrupt agricultural production and undermine economic growth.
The proposed financial package is expected to help the government sustain its reform efforts, strengthen economic stability and advance its development priorities, subject to the IMF board’s approval.
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