The Paris-based Financial Action Task Force is the global standard-setter for policies that combat money laundering, terrorist financing, and the financing of weapons proliferation.
Countries on the grey list are not sanctioned or blacklisted. However, the designation signals to global banks, investors, and multilateral lenders that enhanced due diligence may be required when dealing with institutions in those markets.
In practical terms, grey listing can lead to:
- Increased scrutiny of cross-border transactions
- Higher compliance costs for domestic banks
- Pressure on correspondent banking relationships
- Slower foreign direct investment flows
- Potential increases in sovereign borrowing costs
Removal typically signals stronger regulatory enforcement, improved financial intelligence gathering, better transparency around company ownership, and more effective prosecution of financial crimes.
As of February 2026, the following African countries remain under increased monitoring:
1. Algeria
Algeria continues to implement reforms aimed at strengthening supervision of financial institutions and improving enforcement of anti-money laundering rules. Authorities are working to enhance risk assessments and ensure more effective investigations into financial crimes.
2. Angola
3. Cameroon
Cameroon remains under monitoring as it works to strengthen institutional capacity in detecting and prosecuting money laundering cases. Enhancing supervisory frameworks for banks and non-financial businesses remains a priority.
4. Côte d’Ivoire
Côte d’Ivoire has pledged reforms to tighten oversight of financial institutions and improve mechanisms for identifying suspicious transactions, particularly in higher-risk sectors.
5. Democratic Republic of Congo
The Democratic Republic of Congo faces scrutiny over deficiencies in enforcement and risk-based supervision. Ongoing reforms are focused on strengthening regulatory institutions and improving coordination among enforcement agencies.
6. Kenya
7. Namibia
Namibia is implementing its agreed action plan with a focus on improving national risk assessments, enhancing regulatory supervision, and strengthening inter-agency cooperation in tackling financial crimes.
8. South Sudan
Why grey list status matters
While grey listing does not automatically trigger sanctions, it acts as a reputational signal in global financial markets. For African economies seeking stronger capital inflows, improved credit ratings, and expanded trade ties, demonstrating progress toward compliance is crucial.
Successfully exiting increased monitoring can improve investor confidence, ease banking relationships, and strengthen a country’s credibility within the global financial system making grey list reform not just a regulatory obligation, but an economic priority.
