Mali Launches CFA 312 Billion Domestic Debt Relief to Boost Economic Recovery

Bamako, December 8, 2025 - Mali has launched a domestic debt relief program worth 312 billion CFA francs (about US$554 million) aimed at reviving the national economy and easing pressure on local businesses, the Ministry of Economy and Finance announced on Sunday.

Speaking in Bamako, Economy and Finance Minister Alousséni Sanou said the disbursement will be rolled out over three months starting December 8, targeting outstanding debts for 2023 and 2024. The plan also covers payments linked to strategic projects, including road and hospital infrastructure, school fees, compensation claims, and support to the defense sector.

The initiative is financed through revenues generated from an audit of the mining sector, and is intended to inject liquidity into the banking system while improving the cash flow of domestic companies.

According to official figures, Mali’s domestic debt has already fallen from nearly 600 billion CFA francs in September 2024 to around 439 billion CFA francs, following cumulative disbursements totaling 1,654 billion CFA francs.

Authorities describe the program as a turning point in the financial management of the Transition, reflecting a move toward greater fiscal discipline and economic sovereignty in line with the objectives of the Alliance of Sahel States (AES).

Economists note that the measure could stimulate economic growth, strengthen investor confidence, and support the private sector, despite persistent security challenges. Analysts from the World Bank and the International Monetary Fund have welcomed the sustained reduction in domestic arrears, which they say could help underpin projected growth of between 5% and 6.3% in 2025, driven mainly by the extractive and agricultural sectors.