– Economic strength and adaptability

Abidjan –The head of the African Development Bank Group, Sidi Ould Tah, along with Niger's Prime Minister, Ali Mahamane Lamine Zeine, have finalized a $144.7 million financial pact aimed at enhancing energy availability and boosting the competitiveness of the private sector.

The deal, finalized at the organization's office in Abidjan, offers financial assistance from the African Development Fund, the Bank Group's low-interest lending facility. It allows the Niger government to carry out Phase 1 of the innovative Energy Sector Governance and Competitiveness Support Program (PAGSEC).

The agreement has just been officially finalised, and we are very pleased about it, as it holds significant importance for Niger," stated the Prime Minister. "This agreement is a key element of our robust collaboration with the African Development Bank Group.

The funding provided by the African Development Fund is expected to raise national electricity access from 22.5% to 30% by 2026, while enhancing the manufacturing sector's share of GDP from 2.5% to 3.8%. A central part of the initiative involves expanding renewable energy capabilities, with a target of 240 MW of solar power by 2030, including 50 MW by December 2026.

Prime Minister Zeine, who also holds the position of Niger's Minister of Economy and Finance and is the Governor of the Bank Group in his country, stated: "The support from our Bank arrived at a crucial moment, and the process has now resulted in the creation of this program, which seeks to enhance Niger's economic competitiveness and ability to withstand various shocks by improving energy access, encouraging the private sector, strengthening the fiscal framework, and giving more attention to vulnerable groups in public policies."

In addition to the energy sector, the initiative aims to improve public financial management frameworks, boost tax revenue collection and monitoring systems. It will also assist in resolving domestic debts, foster dialogue on public-private partnerships, and encourage the implementation of an industrial and trade policy to support Niger's private sector.

I can guarantee you that the African Development Bank Group will continue, as it always has, to be a firm advocate for all our regional member countries in their quest for balanced development and mutual prosperity," said Dr. Ould Tah. "I would like to use this chance to commend the Bank's teams for their dedication and also express gratitude to the Board of Directors for their backing of our initiatives.

Social inclusion

This impactful initiative focuses on social inclusion, along with targeted assistance for internally displaced individuals, women, and youth. Over 507,000 people have been displaced internally.

Owing to security issues in the Sahel area, PAGSEC has introduced a social and economic integration initiative to support at-risk populations.

It will also set up high-level coordination frameworks and revise national energy policies to foster an enabling environment for private-sector involvement in mini-grid projects essential for rural electrification.

Through this initiative, Niger aims to leverage its extensive renewable energy resources while establishing governance structures that promote equitable and sustainable growth.

The African Development Bank Group remains committed to advancing Niger's development by making targeted investments that enhance economic competitiveness, ensure energy security, and foster effective governance.