According to the latest International Monetary Fund (IMF) outlook, Sub-Saharan Africa is expected to remain one of the most dynamic regions of the global economy in the coming years. Following estimated growth of around 4.5% in 2025, regional GDP is projected to expand by 4.3% in 2026, supported by domestic consumption, infrastructure investment, and the gradual recovery of trade flows. Despite an international environment marked by geopolitical tensions, slowing global growth, and tighter financing conditions, the region continues to demonstrate remarkable resilience.

However, this positive momentum masks significant differences across countries. Among the strongest-performing economies is Côte d’Ivoire, which is expected to record growth exceeding 6% in both 2026 and 2027. This performance is underpinned by the diversification of its economy, the dynamism of its services sector, sustained public and private investment, and its role as a key economic hub in West Africa.

More broadly, the "economic outlook for the West African Economic and Monetary Union" (WAEMU) remains favorable despite an uncertain global environment. Economic growth across the Union is expected to remain robust, at around 6% over the medium term, driven by strong domestic demand, public infrastructure investment, and solid performance in the services, telecommunications, and agricultural sectors. Inflation, which had risen in the wake of global food and energy price shocks, continues to decline thanks to the normalization of supply chains and the monetary measures implemented by the Central Bank of West African States (BCEAO), falling back below the 2% target rate in 2026.