Western and Central Africa
Restored irrigation and solar-powered pumps are bringing abandoned farmland back into production around Lake Chad.
THE WORLD BANK GROUP IN WESTERN AND CENTRAL AFRICA
Economic Overview: The AFW subregion is projected to grow at 4.3% in 2026, and to increase slightly to 4.6% per year in 2027–28. Excluding Nigeria, growth in the subregion is expected to reach 4.7% in 2026 and accelerate to 5.4% in 2027–28. Growth in the WAEMU is projected to moderate to 5.3% in 2026, down from 6.2% in 2025, before accelerating to an annual average rate of 5.9% in 2027–28. In 2026, the growth deceleration in Benin, Côte d’Ivoire, Guinea-Bissau, and Senegal more than offsets the growth acceleration in Mali, resulting in a marked slowdown in economic activity for the WAEMU.
Development Challenges: Western and Central Africa is a region of tremendous potential, with a young and dynamic population, abundant natural resources, and a rich cultural heritage. However, it faces significant challenges. The region is home to about a quarter of the world’s extreme poor, and around 73% of its population now lives in countries affected by fragility, conflict, and violence. Of the 22 countries in AFW, 20 are eligible for International Development Association (IDA) assistance. To keep pace with population growth, the continent must create 15 million jobs annually, yet current job creation falls far short. The challenge is especially acute in AFW, where over 90% of jobs are in the informal sector, and high-potential industries such as mining, energy, and commercial farming face a shortage of skilled workers, forcing businesses to import labor.
BY THE NUMBERS: WESTERN AND CENTRAL AFRICA
OUR PRIORITIES IN WESTERN AND CENTRAL AFRICA
Jobs
Creating jobs in Western and Central Africa is vital for economic growth and stability. When people have decent work, they can support their families, improve their education, and build better lives for themselves and their communities.
Energy
Affordable, reliable, and sustainable energy is essential for improving lives and unlocking Africa’s full potential. With innovative projects lighting up homes, schools, and businesses, communities across the continent are experiencing real change and new opportunities for growth.
Empowering Women
Investing in the empowerment of women and girls is essential to transforming Western and Central Africa and improving lives. When women and girls have equal access to opportunities, entire communities benefit from greater progress, inclusive growth, and lasting resilience.
THE LATEST FROM WESTERN AND CENTRAL AFRICA
In fiscal year 2024, the World Bank approved $11 billion in funding for 66 projects across Western and Central Africa, including $1.7 billion from IBRD and $9.3 billion from IDA. This significant investment supports development and progress throughout the region.
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Regional Leadership
Chief Economist, Africa
Regional Contact
The World Bank
1818 H Street, NW
Washington, DC 20433
USA
africateam@worldbank.org