Top 10 African Countries With the Highest International Debt 

Some African countries owe the most money to the International Monetary Fund (IMF). This shows they rely a lot on outside help to keep their economies stable. IMF loans have strict rules, like cutting government aid, changing money values, and reducing spending. 

These rules are meant to help stabilise economies but have started discussions about their effect on important areas like healthcare, education, and infrastructure. Critics are worried that these strict changes limit how much the government can spend and question whether the economies of these countries can stay strong and healthy over time. 

As these countries try to manage their spending and reach their development goals, their increasing debts to the IMF highlight the tough challenges of depending on financial help from outside.

Here’s a look at the 10 African countries with the most international debts:

Egypt – Tops the list with an IMF debt of $9.45 billion, underscoring significant fiscal and economic challenges.

Kenya – Holds $3.02 billion in debt, with ongoing efforts to manage this through economic reforms aimed at stimulating growth.

Angola – At $2.99 billion, Angola’s IMF debt reflects its reliance on external funds to manage the economic impacts of volatile oil prices and to help diversify its economy.

Ghana – With a debt of $2.25 billion, Ghana is working on stabilising its currency and enhancing economic resilience through various policies.

Côte d’Ivoire – Owes $2.19 billion and focuses on using international funds to support infrastructure and other development projects.

Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) – The DRC has an IMF debt of $1.6 billion, crucial for tackling economic challenges in one of Africa’s largest and resource-rich countries.

Ethiopia – Faces $1.31 billion in debt, amidst economic reforms and recovery efforts complicated by internal conflicts.

South Africa – Has accumulated $1.14 billion in debt, as part of its broader strategies to recover from economic disruptions and pursue sustainable growth.

Cameroon – With an outstanding debt of $1.13 billion, Cameroon is engaging with the IMF to bolster its fiscal health and support crucial economic sectors.

Senegal – Concludes the list with $1.11 billion, focusing on using these funds to fuel development initiatives and enhance economic stability.