Prices are like a thermometer placed in the household basket. A mere degree higher, and the entire market feels it.
In August, the fever remained mild in the West African Economic and Monetary Union (UEMOA), but the curve has resumed its upward trajectory. According to the BCEAO, year-on-year inflation—the rise in prices observed compared to the same month of the previous year—stood at 1,3% in August 2026, compared to 1,2% in July.
An increase of 0,1 percentage points, modest in appearance, yet confirming a trend toward strengthening. A fundamental dynamic, not a mere accident.
Even more telling, core inflation rose by the same margin to 1,1%. This indicator excludes fresh produce and energy, whose prices fluctuate according to seasons and global markets, in order to isolate the structural trend of the cost of living.
Its advancement indicates that the pressure is not solely due to transitory shocks. The transport category on the front line.
The primary driver of this increase is the 'Transport' category, where prices jumped by 4,7%, following 3,7% a month earlier. 'Food products' followed (+0,9% after +0,8%), as did 'Communication', which returned to positive territory (+0,4%, compared to -0,2% in July).
'Housing' maintains an upward trend (+0,7%), even though its pace has slowed significantly compared to July (+1,5%). At the national level, disparities remain pronounced.
Mali (3,3%) and Burkina Faso (3%) display the highest annual rates in the zone, far above the regional average. At 1,3%, inflation remains well below the tensions observed elsewhere and is well-contained relative to the price stability objective pursued by the BCEAO.
However, the rise in transportation costs, more sensitive for households than any other compulsory expenditure, warrants increased vigilance in the coming months. Published on 08/10/26 16:32 Dr.
Ange Ponou