Energy reforms, agriculture and services expected to drive recovery
The Central African Republic’s economy is expected to gradually strengthen, reaching 2.8% growth by 2027, according to a World Bank report published on Friday, September 26, 2025. The projection is above the 2.1% forecast for 2025 and 2.2% for 2026.
The report said growth will be supported by improvements in the energy sector, agro-processing, and public and private services. These prospects depend largely on “successful execution of energy sector reforms, including addressing fuel supply shortages and enhancing electricity production and distribution.”
The World Bank also pointed to regional initiatives such as the multimodal transport corridor and the waterways project, which are expected to improve logistics, attract investment, and support economic expansion. However, continued financial support from donors and concessional financing will be essential to strengthen infrastructure and social programs.
The CAR’s economic and fiscal difficulties worsened from 2020 due to external shocks and domestic weaknesses. Still, the economy showed signs of recovery last year, with growth estimated at 1.5%, up from 0.7% a year earlier. This rebound was driven by agro-industry and better energy supply at the end of the year.
Despite this progress, risks remain high, including fuel shortages, rising energy costs, and persistent security challenges. Regional conflicts in Sudan and the Sahel, along with tighter financial markets, add further pressure. The World Bank said strong policy measures are needed to build resilience and safeguard development gains.
The National Development Plan (NDP) 2024-2028 will guide government policies. On September 14, Bangui launched a donor roundtable to raise $12 billion to finance the plan, which includes modernizing agriculture, developing the mining sector, and upgrading road infrastructure.
During implementation of the plan, the government expects average real GDP growth of 4.2% and aims to reduce the poverty rate, estimated at 65.3% in 2024.
