#investment program #Central African Republic #Ambition28 #Bangui

Central African Republic's Vision for Growth: Ambition 28

The Central African Republic (CAR) is stepping into a new era of growth with an unprecedented billion-dollar investment program that promises to reshape its future. This program will span various sectors, aiming to uplift the country through significant improvements in infrastructure, security, education, and overall economic development. President Faustin-Archange Touadéra has announced a total investment of USD 12.8 billion, set to be fully realized by 2028, amid promises of sweeping government reforms and business incentives.

Key Objectives

The ambitious blueprint, dubbed 'National Development Plan 2024-2028', aims to execute a staggering 543 individual projects aimed at drastically reducing poverty levels throughout the country. Some of the notable benchmarks outlined in the plan include:

• - 2,300 kilometers of national roads to be paved
• - Expansion of fiber optic cable by 3,000 kilometers
• - Increase the electrification rate from a mere 4% to 38%

These large-scale initiatives are expected to spur a positive economic growth trajectory in CAR. The President emphasized, “We are determined to unlock our country’s largely untapped potential”, underscoring the importance of attracting local and foreign investment to foster economic prosperity, enhance public services, and construct resilient infrastructure.

The State of the Nation

The Central African Republic has enjoyed a semblance of stability since President Touadéra took office in 2016, following years of unrest. The restoration of peace has led to political stabilization and the revitalization of state institutions. Recent economic indicators reveal promising growth, with an inflation rate of just 1.5% in 2024, stable currency values, and a projected 5.1% economic growth in the same year. These developments have improved the CAR's standing in the Global Soft Power Index 2025, ranking 18th among African nations and 2nd in its Central African region.

Untapped Resources

Despite its strides, CAR still remains among the world's least developed nations. However, the country boasts vast potential with 15 million hectares of arable land, only 5% of which is currently cultivated. The tropical climate and fertile soil hold immense promise for the agriculture sector, covering crops like cassava, corn, rice, and several cash crops chosen for their export viability.

The country is also rich in untapped mineral resources, with the World Bank identifying over 470 mineral deposits that include diamonds, gold, and uranium, among others. Prime Minister Félix Moloua indicated that harnessing these resources, alongside investing in human capital, is essential for the country’s development.

Investment Opportunities

The CAR aims to draw international investors' attention through the Ambition 28 Investor Conference. This notable gathering will take place in Casablanca, Morocco, on September 14 and 15, 2025, where the government will present the National Development Plan and 24 specific investment projects. High-profile figures from the World Bank, African Development Bank, and various international organizations will take part in this pivotal conference, signaling a push for stronger partnerships and commitments towards the country’s economic transformation.

Minister of Economy, Planning, and International Cooperation, Prof. Richard Filakota, believes this conference will be foundational. “We are not looking for handouts. We seek fair partners who recognize opportunities,” he declared, signaling an exciting time for potential investors eager to tap into one of Africa's promising frontiers.

Summary

The Central African Republic stands at a pivotal moment in its history, with comprehensive strategies aimed at long-term transformation and sustainable growth. Through the National Development Plan 2024-2028, CAR is poised to leap beyond its historical struggles, inviting the world to partake in rewriting its narrative. As the country strives to create a prosperous future for its citizens, the question arises: Can international and local partnerships catalyze a renaissance in this rich yet underdeveloped nation? Only time will tell, but the opportunities beckon hope and action.