By Djinodji SOLMENGAR Rodrigue
Chad could record the lowest public debt ratio among CEMAC and UEMOA countries in 2026, according to the IMF’s latest World Economic Outlook projections.
The IMF estimates Chad’s public debt at 29.9% of GDP. The figure remains far below the regional averages for both Central and West Africa.
In the CEMAC zone, Congo could reach 91.3% of GDP in 2026. Gabon follows with 86.1%. Cameroon and Equatorial Guinea stand at 39.3% and 39.1% respectively.
The IMF report also highlights mounting debt pressure across sub-Saharan Africa. Many governments continue to face high financing costs, budget deficits and growing infrastructure needs.
Economists often view lower debt levels as a sign of controlled public borrowing and stronger repayment capacity. However, they warn that low debt does not always reflect strong economic performance or better living conditions.
Chad still faces major investment needs in electricity, transport, water and public infrastructure. Authorities recently launched several cooperation projects to strengthen energy and industrial capacity, including partnerships with Algeria.
The IMF expects average public debt in the CEMAC zone to reach 51.6% of GDP in 2026. In UEMOA countries, the average could stand at 63.6%.
The institution has urged African governments to improve domestic revenue collection, control public spending and support investments that can sustain long-term growth.
