France Suspends AFD Projects In AES Countries

The French Development Agency (AFD) has suspended all new project financing in Burkina Faso, Mali, and Niger. This decision follows political instability within the Alliance of Sahel States (AES). The suspension is based on a decision by French state authorities. Global credits are decreasing to 13 billion euros per year, with half of that amount allocated to Africa. This funding level is twice as high as it was ten years ago. The impact includes improved access to transport and health services for approximately 20 million people. French companies win between 2 billion and 3 billion euros in financing annually through the Agence Française de Développement (AFD). These funds are secured following international calls for tenders. The source stated that French firms win 7 to 8 out of every 10 bids when they participate. This occurs within the context of defining new international development and negotiation policies for the G7. Rémi Ryu, the AFD director, stated that while they do not always win, they succeed in 8 out of 10 cases. Ryu addressed political pressure regarding allegations of funding hostile nations, denying that the AFD has activities in Algeria and noting the lack of police presence in Niger and Burkina Faso.