AIDS Healthcare Foundation (AHF) Nigeria has called on African leaders and the international community to break the cycle of debt injustice that deprives children and young people of critical investments in healthcare, education, and social protection. The organization made the appeal on the occasion of the 2026 Day of the African Child, observed annually on June 16.
Debt Servicing vs. Human Development
In a statement issued in Abuja, AHF Nigeria emphasized that Africa's youthful population is its greatest asset, but warned that the aspirations of millions of children and young people will remain unfulfilled if governments continue to prioritize debt servicing over investments in human development. Many African countries are constrained by an unfair global debt system that limits their ability to fund essential services for young people.
“From HIV prevention and youth-friendly health services to quality education, gender equality, protection from violence, and economic empowerment opportunities, the needs of young people are interconnected and require sustained public investment,” the statement read.
Freedom from Debt Campaign
AHF Nigeria stressed that through its “Freedom from Debt” campaign, it advocates urgent reforms that place people above profit and enable governments to invest more resources in the welfare of children and youths. The organization continues to support youth empowerment through initiatives such as Girls Act, Boys2Men, and other programs promoting leadership, health literacy, sexual and reproductive health rights, and community advocacy.
Reducing unsustainable debt burdens would allow more young people to remain in school, access quality healthcare, pursue their ambitions, and contribute to national development, according to AHF.
Legacy of the Soweto Uprising
The Day of the African Child commemorates the 1976 Soweto Uprising in South Africa, where students protesting inequalities in the apartheid education system were violently attacked while demanding quality education. AHF stated that the legacy of the uprising remains a strong reminder for leaders to prioritize the welfare, rights, and future of children across Africa.
“Fifty years later, the legacy of the Soweto Uprising continues as a call to action for leaders to listen to young people and ensure that every child has the resources, opportunities, and support needed to build the future they deserve,” the organization stated.
