During a press briefing, the Burkinabe head of state was asked about the gradual development of shared institutions among Burkina Faso, Mali, and Niger. Following progress in military, diplomatic, and financial areas, the creation of a common currency for the three countries stands out as one of the most sensitive issues.

When pressed on whether an AES currency might soon be launched, Ibrahim Traoré offered no date, no name, and no launch mechanism. He merely urged people to watch for future developments.

At this stage, none of the three states has released an official timeline detailing an exit from the CFA franc, a transition period, or the procedures for establishing a joint central bank. Information circulating on social media about banknotes already printed or an imminent rollout should therefore be treated with caution.

Authorities within the AES area have already denied several announcements attributing monetary decisions to the Confederation that had not been officially adopted.

Monetary sovereignty remains a political goal

While Ibrahim Traoré did not provide a timeline, he has not closed the door on a dedicated currency. The Burkinabe president has repeatedly presented economic and financial sovereignty as an extension of the cooperation with Mali and Niger. In this context, the monetary question goes beyond simply creating banknotes, as it involves managing reserves, exchange rate policy, financing economies, and ensuring price stability.

A potential exit from the current system would also require institutions capable of conducting a common monetary policy and building confidence in the new currency. The AES has already begun developing some joint financial instruments, including mechanisms to support investments and structural projects across the three states.

These arrangements can be seen as components of a broader economic integration, yet they do not prove that a common currency is ready to be launched. Moving to a dedicated currency would represent a far more complex step, with consequences for banks, businesses, cross-border trade, contracts, savings, and public finances.

For now, the three countries continue to use the CFA franc of the West African Economic and Monetary Union. No official decision has been made public regarding a withdrawal date, a conversion rate to a potential new currency, or a period during which both currencies might coexist.