IMF and Senegal remain at odds over debt, budget, and fiscal policy
via SeneNews5 min read
Significant disagreements persist between the International Monetary Fund IMF and the State of Senegal, despite recent meetings in Washington during the joint IMF-World Bank gatherings. Cheikh Diba and Abdourahmane Sarr's visit did not bridge the gap on key points of contention, including the country's debt level, its management, and fiscal policy directions. Reuters confirmed the lack of progress, indicating that discussions between Senegalese authorities and IMF officials failed to revive cooperation, which is crucial for reassuring international lenders. While Senegalese ministers described the discussions as "fruitful," including a meeting with IMF Managing Director Kristalina Georgieva and her deputy Kenji Okamura, fundamental differences remain. A major point of disagreement is budgetary projections: the Senegalese government forecasts a 5.6% deficit for the current year, while the IMF estimates it at 6.7%, with a 5.8% prediction for 2027. The IMF attributes this to a strategy relying on aggressive fiscal pressure, which is itself a point of friction. Mercédès Vera-Martin, the IMF representative for Senegal, reportedly warned against an "overly aggressive fiscal policy," advocating for a more gradual adjustment to limit the impact on the population. This aligns with former IMF Africa Department Director Abebe Aemro Selassie's call to avoid irreversible choices that could lead to excessive austerity. In this context, Senegalese authorities are exploring alternative finan
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