Banks and microfinance institutions in the West African Economic and Monetary Union (UEMOA) increased their contribution to financing the economy in 2025. According to data presented by the Central Bank of West African States (BCEAO) during a training seminar organized on July 20 and 21, 2026 for journalists in the Union, outstanding bank loans to customers amounted to nearly 39,000 billion CFA francs at the end of December 2025.
On this occasion, the Central Bank presented an overview of the financial sector as well as the main reforms initiated to improve financing conditions in the Union.
A support role in financing the economy
The BCEAO emphasizes that financing the economy mainly relies on banks and microfinance institutions. The Central Bank does not directly intervene with companies or individuals, but acts by creating conditions for financial institutions to grant loans.
Its action is based in particular on monetary policy, financial stability mechanisms, and reforms aimed at developing the financial sector and its infrastructure.
Indicators on the rise at the end of December 2025
At the end of December 2025, the UEMOA had 161 licensed credit institutions, including 136 banks and 25 financial institutions.
According to data provided by the BCEAO, bank assets amounted to 70,177 billion CFA francs, up 9% from 2024. Loans granted to customers reached nearly 39,000 billion CFA francs, representing an annual increase of 5.3%.
The microfinance sector also continued its expansion. The Union had 524 licensed institutions, with total assets of 3,210 billion CFA francs, an increase of 12%. Loans distributed by decentralized financial systems amounted to 2,937 billion CFA francs, up 9.2% year-on-year.
Reform on the minimum capital of banks
Among the ongoing reforms, the BCEAO mentioned the increase in the minimum social capital required for banking activities. Since January 1, 2024, this threshold has been raised from 10 to 20 billion CFA francs.
Already licensed institutions have a transitional period until December 31, 2026 to comply with this requirement.
According to the BCEAO, this measure aims to strengthen the financial soundness of banks and their ability to mobilize stable resources.
