Sub-Saharan Africa Regional Economic Outlook–April 2025: Three Key Messages

Source: International Monetary Fund – IMF (video statements)

Despite stronger-than-expected performance last year, Sub-Saharan Africa now faces global uncertainty and reduced external funding, slowing growth to 3.8% in 2025. With limited fiscal space and elevated debt levels, countries must prioritize domestic revenue mobilization, spending efficiency, and ambitious reforms to build resilience against future economic shocks. IMF African Department Director Abebe Aemro Selassie shares three key messages from the latest economic outlook for sub-Saharan Africa. https://www.imf.org/en/Publications/REO/SSA/Issues/2025/04/25/regional-economic-outlook-for-sub-saharan-africa-april-2025?cid=sm-com-ig-SM2025-REOAFREA2025001

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nQXCHnUejag

Global and Regional Economic Developments and Outlook

Source: International Monetary Fund – IMF (video statements)

This high-level event that will bring together policymakers, business leaders, diplomats, and academics to explore how global and regional developments impact countries in the Middle East and North Africa. Amid heightened global uncertainty, the discussions will focus on the policy actions required to foster sustained growth, stability, and shared prosperity across the region.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3fop3_EsI18

Rising to the challenge: Europe’s path to growth and resilience

Source: International Monetary Fund – IMF (video statements)

The sharply deteriorating global order is adding further complications to Europe’s already challenging economic situation. New tariffs come at a time when economies are grappling with structural transformations in demographics and energy, and amidst increasing security spending needs. Export markets are shrinking, uncertainty is undermining firms’ willingness to innovate, and public expenditure needs are rising. Without a turnaround in growth, Europe’s ability to deliver on its social welfare promises is in jeopardy. If European policymakers were to seize the moment, the region’s growth potential and resilience to shocks could rise substantially.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pli23w1I9Cc