An International Monetary Fund (IMF) team, led by Albert Touna Mama, visited Bangui from January 9 to 16, 2025. The purpose of the visit was to continue discussions on the Central African Republic's reform program supported by the Extended Credit Facility (ECF). The focus areas included public financial management, revenue administration, fuel market reforms, and governance.
Albert Touna Mama stated at the conclusion of the visit: “The mission made progress on measures needed to improve the fiscal performance going forward and accelerate the reforms under the Central African Republic’s (CAR) ECF-supported program. We commend the authorities’ recent initiatives to limit non-priority spending."
He emphasized that "the mission encouraged a steadfast implementation of PFM reforms, especially with the systematic use of the integrated financial information system at the General Directorate of the Treasury and sectoral ministries, including for extraordinary expenditures." Further attention is required on revenue administration to expedite steps towards increasing taxpayer registration and payment through a new electronic declaration system known as E-tax.
Touna Mama also highlighted that "a sustainable increase in revenue mobilization over the medium term will require a greater contribution from all tax bases, including from fuel sales." He suggested that an audit of fuel procurement costs could support reforming fuel price structures to improve revenue collection and lower pump prices.
Efforts were noted towards raising highly concessional financing to alleviate debt vulnerabilities and reduce social spending crowding out due to debt servicing costs. The IMF delegation expressed gratitude towards CAR authorities for their hospitality and open dialogue during discussions.
During their visit, they met with President Touadéra, Prime Minister Moloua, President of the National Assembly Sarandji, Minister of Finance and Budget Ndoba, BEAC National Director Chaïbou, other senior officials, and representatives from development partners.