Top 10 African Countries With the Highest Debt in 2025

Many African countries are facing high levels of debt compared to their economic output, showing the financial challenges they face. High debt affects a country’s ability to fund public services and invest in necessary infrastructure. 

The economic problems caused by the COVID-19 pandemic and ongoing global uncertainty are making these issues worse.

The International Monetary Fund (IMF) lists the top 10 African countries with the highest debt-to-GDP ratios in 2025:

Cabo Verde 

Cabo Verde tops the list with a debt-to-GDP ratio of 107.21%. The economic difficulties intensified by the pandemic have forced the country to borrow more to support its economy.

Mozambique 

Mozambique has a debt ratio of 96.47%. The country is still trying to recover from a major debt crisis that started in 2016, and economic recovery is slow due to various challenges.

Republic of Congo 

Republic of Congo has a ratio of 89.04%, mainly because it relies heavily on oil exports. The unstable oil prices have pushed the country to think about diversifying its economy.

Malawi 

Malawi has a ratio of 82.28% and faces ongoing economic issues despite some development progress. The country needs better management of its finances while investing in essential public sectors.

Mauritius 

Mauritius has a ratio of 80.94% and is known for its strong financial and tourism sectors. The challenge for the government is to manage rising debt while trying to grow the economy.

Senegal 

Senegal has a ratio of 80.48%, highlighting the need for good financial policies to handle its growing debt and pursue sustainable development.

Burundi 

Burundi faces a ratio of 80.36%, with ongoing economic problems that limit growth and worsen its debt situation.

Gabon 

Gabon has a debt-to-GDP ratio of 79.96%. Its economy depends a lot on oil, which makes it vulnerable to oil price changes. The country needs to make strategic changes to stabilize its economy.

Ghana 

Ghana has a ratio of 79.51%. High fiscal deficits and the need for external borrowing have led to increased calls for careful financial management.

South Africa 

South Africa has several structural and political issues that complicate its economic and financial stability, as shown by a debt-to-GDP ratio of 77.40%.