Africa-Press. The International Monetary Fund announced that it will send a technical mission to Senegal starting June 15 to continue discussions with Senegalese authorities regarding the country’s economic and financial situation.
Local press reported that Julie Kozak, the communications director at the International Monetary Fund, stated that this mission aims to reach a shared understanding of Senegal’s macroeconomic outlook, its financing needs, and reform priorities.
The discussions will also focus on the issue of public debt and measures aimed at enhancing the sustainability of public finances, amid revelations of discrepancies in financial and budgetary data published in recent years.
The International Monetary Fund indicated its ongoing discussions with Senegalese authorities regarding their request for a new cooperation program, while emphasizing the need to continue the ongoing technical work.
This announcement comes as Senegal continues its efforts to enhance its macroeconomic stability and provide the necessary financing to implement its development priorities.
The discussions between Dakar and the International Monetary Fund are expected to particularly focus on financial tools that can support economic reforms and public financial management in the country.
IMF Emphasizes Completion of Technical Work and Economic Stability
In 2024, the new government accused the previous administration (2012-2024) of concealing the true extent of this concerning financial situation. As a result, the International Monetary Fund suspended its aid program amounting to $1.8 billion (1.6 billion euros), which was agreed upon in 2023, pending responses and commitments from the new authorities.
The Fund specifically pointed to serious errors in reports related to the budget deficit and public debt for the period 2019-2023.
After several visits by the International Monetary Fund to Senegal to review the country’s finances, both parties began negotiations in mid-October regarding a new aid program.
Who is Zinedine Zidane, the New Director of the African Department at the IMF?
In a separate context, Kristalina Georgieva, the Managing Director of the International Monetary Fund, announced her intention to appoint Zinedine Zidane as the director of the African Department, succeeding Abebe Aemro Selassie, whose retirement date from the Fund is May 1, 2026.
In this regard, Georgieva stated: “I informed the Executive Board of my intention to appoint Zinedine Zidane as the director of the African Department.”
Zidane possesses deep institutional knowledge, sound judgment, and strong policy-making experience, which will support the African Department’s efforts to meet the growing demand for advice on policies, financing, and capacity development in sub-Saharan Africa in line with the region’s needs.
Georgieva added in a statement: “Zidane has a balanced and thoughtful approach that has proven effective in addressing challenging and sensitive issues. I trust in his ability to successfully lead the African Department by uniting efforts to support its missions and serve member countries.”
Who is Zinedine Zidane?
Zidane is a citizen of Mauritania, and his experience in macroeconomic policy-making and international economic cooperation spans over twenty years. He holds a PhD in applied mathematics and a graduate degree in macroeconomics from the University of Nice, according to information available on the International Monetary Fund’s website.
Zidane currently serves as Deputy Director in the Middle East and Central Asia Department, overseeing the Fund’s activities in key Gulf economies and contributing to deepening strategic partnerships with key regional partners, including through the establishment of the IMF regional office in Riyadh in 2024.
