#Central African Republic #Ambition28 #National Development Plan #Bangui

Central African Republic Initiates Ambitious Investment Program

The Central African Republic (CAR) is embarking on a monumental journey by launching a billion-dollar investment initiative aimed at revitalizing its economy across all sectors. This massive investment, totaling an ambitious USD 12.8 billion by 2028, seeks to unlock the vast potential housed within the country. On September 14 and 15, 2025, the CAR government will present this national development vision at the International Investment Round Table in Casablanca, Morocco.

A Comprehensive Roadmap for Progress

At the core of this investment initiative is the National Development Plan 2024–2028, a roadmap entailing 543 specific projects designed to reduce poverty and improve citizens’ quality of life. Notable ambitions include constructing 2,300 kilometers of paved roads and laying down 3,000 kilometers of fiber optic cables, aimed at substantially improving communication infrastructure. The government intends to increase the electrification rate significantly from 4% to 38%, thus bringing light to innumerable homes that have long remained in darkness.

President Faustin Archange Touadéra shared his aspirations: "We are determined to unlock our country's largely untapped potential by accelerating economic growth, building resilient and sustainable infrastructure, improving basic public services, and providing incentives for investors." His commitment is centered on establishing a genuine dynamic of economic and social development, thereby enhancing the welfare of the nation’s inhabitants.

A Shift in the Economic Landscape

Regarded as one of the least developed regions globally, the Central African Republic has undergone notable shifts under President Touadéra’s administration since his election in 2016. The efforts for consistent pacification and political stabilization have laid a foundation for substantial improvements in essential economic indicators. For example, the inflation rate showcased a commendable 1.5% in 2024, along with stable currency and robust economic growth recorded at 5.1%.

Despite facing daunting challenges, CAR is undoubtedly rich in resources. The country is endowed with enormous mineral wealth, abundant forests, and fertile lands, with around 15 million hectares of arable land — only 5% of which is currently in cultivation. The tropical climate accompanied by fertile soil lends itself to the successful agricultural cultivation of diverse crops, including cassava, corn, rice, and cocoa.

Harnessing Natural Resources Responsibly

The environmental landscape is robust, with approximately 23 million hectares of forest that present unique opportunities for sustainable businesses, including ecotourism and forestry certified by the Forest Stewardship Council (FSC). Moreover, a recent World Bank analysis has identified over 470 mineral deposits, which include diamonds, gold, uranium, and coltan, creating avenues for substantial investment in mining and extraction sectors.

Prime Minister Félix Moloua articulated the necessity of investing in human capital: "We must lay the groundwork for a progressive vision, focusing on improving vital infrastructure accesses like schools and health services." This comprehensive developmental agenda not only aims to uplift living standards but also prioritizes economic sustainability and climate resilience.

Ambition28 – A Call to Investors

The upcoming Ambition28 investor conference symbolizes a pivotal starting point for CAR’s international cooperation efforts. During the two-day event in Casablanca, prominent officials including President Touadéra and key economic strategists will introduce the National Development Plan's framework to potential investors. Institutions like the World Bank, the African Development Bank, and the UN are expected to highlight collaborative opportunities that can drive the nation’s economic transformation.

The conference will provide a platform to present 24 specific projects, focusing on investment possibilities in energy, agriculture, and tourism industries, creating a unique space for engaged dialogues between the CAR government and global partners.

Minister of Economy, Planning, and International Cooperation, Prof. Richard Filakota, stated, "This round table acts as a vital catalyst for bringing together global players, financiers, and institutions to construct a prosperous future for our country. We seek fair partnerships and are eager to collaboratively write Africa's next success story."

Through the National Development Plan and initiatives like Ambition28, the Central African Republic is stepping into a new era of development, aspired by optimism and the expectation of a brighter future for its citizens.

For more information on the upcoming Round Table and the National Development Plan, visit Ambition28 Round Table and National Development Plan.