The AIDS Healthcare Foundation (AHF) Nigeria has called on African leaders to break what it described as the cycle of debt injustice, warning that rising debt obligations are depriving millions of children and young people of access to quality healthcare, education and economic opportunities.
The organisation made the call on Monday to mark the 2026 Day of the African Child, urging governments and global financial institutions to reform the international debt system and channel more resources toward youth development.
AHF said Africa, home to the world’s youngest population, risks undermining its future if governments continue to spend substantial portions of their budgets servicing debt instead of investing in the wellbeing and potential of young people.
According to the organisation, critical sectors such as healthcare, education and social protection are suffering from inadequate funding because many countries are compelled to prioritise debt repayments.
“Africa’s greatest asset is its young people, but their aspirations for healthy, educated and prosperous futures cannot be realised when nations are forced to prioritise debt payments over investments in healthcare, education and social protection,” the organisation stated.
AHF noted that the needs of young people are interconnected and require sustained public investment, ranging from HIV prevention and youth-friendly health services to quality education, gender equality, protection from violence and economic empowerment opportunities.
The foundation argued that an unfair global debt system continues to restrict many African governments from providing the services and opportunities needed for children and youth to reach their full potential.
Through its Freedom from Debt campaign, AHF is advocating urgent reforms that would enable countries to place people’s welfare ahead of financial obligations and invest more resources in human development.
The organisation stressed that debt relief and fairer financing arrangements would help governments expand access to healthcare, improve educational outcomes and create better opportunities for young people across the continent.
AHF also highlighted its youth-centred initiatives, including Girls Act and Boys2Men programmes, which are designed to strengthen leadership skills, improve health literacy, advance sexual and reproductive health rights, and provide safe spaces for young people to engage in advocacy and community development.
According to the foundation, a future free from unsustainable debt would allow more young Africans to remain in school, access quality healthcare, pursue their ambitions and contribute meaningfully to economic growth and social progress.
