Niger set for $203 million IMF aid program

The International Monetary Fund said Thursday it had reached a preliminary agreement with Niger on a 38-month aid program that could provide about $203 million over three years to support economic reforms.

The Extended Credit Facility agreement was reached during talks in Niamey and still needs approval from the IMF Executive Board.

Julia Bersch, who led the IMF delegation, said the new program would consolidate macroeconomic stability and support implementation of Niger’s 2025-29 development strategy.

The IMF expects Niger’s economy to grow by seven percent this year and by nearly as much in 2027, supported by agriculture and oil exports. It warned that significant risks remain, particularly from security threats and climate-related shocks.

Niger’s ruling military junta has emphasised economic self-reliance and closer ties with Russia while continuing to work with the IMF.