Ethiopia Insight published on 27 December 2025 an analysis titled "Ethiopia's Currency Gamble" by Mintesinot Melaku.
The IMF encouraged Ethiopia to adopt a floating exchange rate. The author explains why Ethiopia was ill-prepared to implement this currency reform program. The core problem is the inability to generate sufficient foreign exchange income.
The Sudan Tribune published on 27 May 2025 an article titled "New U.S. Sanctions Spark Economic Fears in War-torn Sudan."
New US sanctions on Sudan that include restrictions on US exports and Sudan's access to US government credit lines plunged Sudan's parallel foreign currency markets into chaos and may have a long-term impact on remittances.
Ethiopia Insight published on 5 November 2024 a commentary titled "Now the Birr Floats, Will Ethiopia Sink or Swim?" by Muktar Ismail, regional analyst and former advisor to the president of Somali Region.
Last July, Ethiopia adopted a market-determined exchange rate, lifted most current account restrictions, and modernized its monetary policy framework in order to pave the way for International Monetary Fund and World Bank bailouts.
Ethiopia has regressed from two decades of economic and social progress and faces growing economic challenges. The recent economic policy reform has witnessed a plummeting depreciation of the currency and strong inflationary pressure. The author concludes that IMF and donor financing are unlikely to stabilize an economy plagued by conflict, poor management, and rapid currency depreciation.
The Sentry published in March 2021 a briefing titled "Sudan's Exchange Rate: How to Sustain Progress and Preempt Risks" by Suliman Baldo.
Sudan has realigned the exchange rate of the Sudanese pound. This change should level the playing field for the private sector, encourage foreign investment, and reduce corruption.
