Speaking to journalists, the Burkinabè head of state was pressed on the gradual construction of joint institutions among Burkina Faso, Mali, and Niger. After progress in military, diplomatic, and financial areas, the creation of a currency specific to the three countries stands out as one of the most sensitive issues.

Asked whether an AES currency might be introduced soon, Ibrahim Traoré provided no date, name, or launch mechanism. He simply urged people to watch for future developments.

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

Authorities in 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 give a timeline, he has not closed the door on a dedicated currency. The Burkinabè president has repeatedly presented economic and financial sovereignty as an extension of the cooperation engaged with Mali and Niger. In this logic, 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 ensuring confidence in the new currency. The AES has already begun developing certain common financial instruments, notably through mechanisms designed to support investments and structural projects of the three states.

These arrangements can be seen as elements of broader economic integration, without proving 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 toward a possible new currency, or a period during which both currencies might coexist.