In a global economic context marked by many challenges, the Bank of Central African States (BEAC) and the Central Bank of West African States (BCEAO) are strengthening their cooperation. Meeting in Yaoundé on January 27, the governors of the two institutions signed a joint action plan for 2025-2026, aimed at modernizing financial systems and promoting economic inclusion in their respective areas.
The Bank of Central African States (BEAC) and the Central Bank of West African States (BCEAO) are consolidating their relations. On 27 January, Yvon Sana Bangui, Governor of the BEAC, welcomed his counterpart Jean-Claude Kassi Brou to Yaoundé for a working visit under the Cooperation Agreement signed between the two institutions in 2008 in Dakar. This meeting resulted in the signing of a joint action plan covering the period 2025-2026.
Faced with the economic and monetary challenges facing the Economic and Monetary Community of Central Africa (CEMAC) and the West African Economic and Monetary Union (WAEMU), this cooperation aims to strengthen the financial stability of the two regions. “We must strengthen the synergy of our actions to face the changes in the global economy,” stressed Jean-Claude Kassi Brou.
The action plan signed by the two central banks covers several strategic areas: Digital transformation and financial inclusion: developing innovative solutions to improve access to banking services, particularly via mobile telephony and fintechs.
Innovation and cybersecurity: securing financial transactions in a context of growing new technologies.
Modernization of means of payment: interconnecting payment systems to facilitate intra-African economic exchanges.
External financial relations : harmonizing exchange rate policies and improving resilience to international macroeconomic shocks.
By integrating these priorities, the BEAC and the BCEAO wish not only to consolidate their respective monetary systems, but also to promote the convergence of their economies.
The common history of the two institutions, which share the heritage of the CFA franc although in two distinct forms, justifies this desire for increased cooperation. At a time when African economies are facing challenges related to climate, energy and technological crises, joining forces is essential. The deployment of artificial intelligence within central banks is also among the priority considerations. “By sharing our experiences, we will be able to accelerate financial education and promote financial inclusion,” said Jean-Claude Kassi Brou.
To ensure the follow-up of this dynamic, a new summit is planned for 2026 in Dakar, headquarters of the BCEAO. This meeting will serve to assess the progress made and adjust strategies according to economic and technological developments. Thanks to this strengthened cooperation, the BEAC and the BCEAO aim to sustainably establish monetary and financial stability in West and Central Africa, while preparing their economies for the challenges of tomorrow.
