As the global economy becomes more intricate, the surge in sovereign debt levels in Africa remains a cause of concern. Emanating from slow growth, capital outflows and geopolitical tensions, the majority of African countries are at high risk of debt distress. Subsequently, there is a growing need for countries to address fiscal pressures, stimulate economic growth and promote debt transparency.

Launched in September 2019 by CABRI, the Africa Debt Monitor (ADM) is unique and is a right tool designed to manage and track sovereign debt levels across the continent. The ADM has transformed the way governments, policymakers and other actors’ access and use debt information.

In 2025, the ADM enters its third iteration and this month, we held two informative webinars on how to fill out the 2024 ADM Questionnaire for anglophone and francophone CABRI member and non-member countries.

What makes the ADM unique?

1. It is the first repository to go beyond debt position and debt outstanding, and identify the institutional arrangements, processes and policies which together reveal the ability of debt offices to manage debt, cash and associated risk.
2. It was developed in consultation with 17 African debt managers to ensure that the content and format of the ADM reflects the priorities and information requirements of CABRI’s core constituency, i.e. ministries of finance
3. All information is provided directly by participating countries, following which CABRI collates, validates, cleans and migrates the data. The ADM is therefore the first debt database to be fully country-owned.

The ADM is designed to meet the continent’s unique needs. This country-owned initiative is more than just a database of debt statistics. It is a comprehensive, user-friendly platform that supports the sustainable management of public debt and promotes transparency across African nations.

The ADM goes further than simply reporting debt data. It provides a fundamental understanding of the institutional frameworks, policies, and practices that support public debt management. Thanks to this CABRI knowledge product, policymakers can appreciate the capacity of debt offices to manage debt, cash flows, and associated risks, thereby making decisions that will continuously improve debt sustainability.

The platform provides detailed insights for efficient debt management unlike most traditional debt-monitoring tools that focus only on debt data. The ADM looks at the management of debt, its issuance, recording, and reporting; thus, giving users a better understanding of the processes that govern debt management on the continent. Such insight is necessary for judging the efficient and effective workings of debt management systems as well as for examining possible risks.

By providing country-specific information and allowing cross-country comparisons, the ADM allows users to benchmark debt management strategies and have insight of diverse and possible funding sources within Africa. Such a comparative study assists sovereigns policymakers, scholars, and investors in identifying shortcomings and adopting best practices, therefore enhancing cooperation in the debt management process as well as accountability.

Transparency in debt is essential as it ushers in timely detection of debt distress wherein countries are able to take proactive measures to manage fiscal pressures and reduce default risks. This instil confidence among investors as well as enticing a pool of new investors. It includes stronger governance, which by ricochet improves accountability and reduces the chances of corruption in processes related to sovereign debt. By improving debt transparency, African governments will foster an environment of trust and accountability, which is key to long-term economic stability and growth.

As the ADM continues to evolve, it possesses the transformative potential to change how African countries manage debt. It offers an open platform for data and best practices, creating a knowledge-sharing network that aids more effective governance and decision-making. The tool is a giant stride toward improved debt transparency and governance throughout the continent. In turn, this greater accountability and informed decision-making will empower African countries to manage their public debt in an efficient manner.

All African countries are encouraged to actively take part in the 2024 survey and update their data, engage openly and share their experiences. Your feedback will not only help in refining the tool but also in enhancing the wider systems and practices of debt management that fundamentally support Africa’s economic future.

For further information in taking part in the survey or any clarification regarding the tool, please contact CABRI staff members Alilali Nelufule, Head: Sustainable Public Debt (alilali.nelufule@cabri-sbo.org) and Teboho Mohai, Public Financial Management Specialist (teboho.mohai@cabri-sbo.org).