IMF’s Africa Chief Sounds Alarm on Middle East Conflict, Hopes for African Growth Nairobi, Kenya – The International Monetary Fund’s (IMF) new Africa chief, Zeine Zeidane, has sounded the alarm on the economic impact of the ongoing conflict in the Middle East, warning that it poses significant challenges for sub-Saharan Africa. Despite these concerns, Zeidane remains optimistic about the continent’s potential for growth. Since assuming his role as director of the IMF’s African Department on May 1, 2026, Zeidane has prioritized helping African nations absorb the impact of the Middle East crisis.
This has led to the approval of additional financing support for countries such as Burkina Faso, The Gambia, São Tomé and Príncipe, and the acceleration of around $200 million in funding for Ethiopia. Sub-Saharan Africa’s economies entered 2026 with a significant momentum, marking its fastest growth rate in 10 years at 4. 5 percent in 2025.
However, the conflict in the Middle East has introduced new economic challenges that could potentially disrupt this growth trajectory.
The International Energy Agency (IEA) has warned that the disruption to oil and gas flows through the Strait of Hormuz and attacks on energy infrastructure across the region have major implications for energy security and affordability – and for the world economy.
The IEA’s Executive Director has said the combined impacts amount to “the greatest threat to global energy security in history. “.
Zeidane’s perspective is optimistic, suggesting that Africa is poised to become the world’s next major engine of growth if its economic potential is fully unlocked. Reuters reports that the economic fallout from the Middle East war and a collapse in foreign aid are pushing more African countries to seek support from the IMF.
Officials commented on the matter. “.
The IMF is committed to supporting countries under pressure. “
The IMF’s Africa Department has already reached staff-level agreements to increase financial assistance for Burkina Faso, The Gambia, and São Tomé and Príncipe to help offset the effects of the conflict. For Ethiopia, which is implementing a large IMF-supported reform programme, the fund accelerated approximately $200 million in financing.
Yet, despite the challenges posed by the Middle East conflict, Zeidane remains hopeful about Africa’s future. “
We must seize this opportunity and work together to build a more prosperous and stable continent. “
The IMF’s support for African nations facing the economic fallout from the Middle East conflict is a testament to the organization’s commitment to the region’s development.
As Zeidane continues to lead the IMF’s Africa Department, his optimism for Africa’s future remains unwavering, despite the challenges that lie ahead.
*Additional reporting by ImNews | Sources consulted: 5*
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This original article was produced by the ImNews editorial team
Source: Africanews
Source: Rédaction Africanews
