By: Cynthia Masibo
The Catholic Church has officially launched the Jubilee 2025 Africa Campaign, a bold initiative advocating for the cancellation of unjust debts burdening African nations. The campaign, spearheaded by the Jesuit Justice and Ecology Network Africa (JENA) in collaboration with Caritas Africa and the Symposium of Episcopal Conferences of Africa and Madagascar (SECAM), was launched at a hotel in Nairobi.
Building on the historic Jubilee 2000 campaign, which successfully led to over $100 billion in debt relief for some of the world’s poorest nations, the Jubilee 2025 initiative seeks to reignite global solidarity in addressing Africa’s growing debt crisis. Church leaders emphasized that debt is not merely an economic issue but a moral one that affects human dignity, development, and social justice.
Africa is facing a critical financial challenge, with over 22 countries either in debt distress or at high risk due to unsustainable borrowing. The situation has been worsened by the COVID-19 pandemic, economic shocks, and rising global interest rates, which have left nations struggling to meet basic needs while servicing massive debts.
Fr. Charles Chilufya, S.J., Director of JENA, stressed that many African countries have been trapped in cycles of poverty due to unjust debt arrangements. “Debt is not just an economic issue; it is a moral one. The burden of unjust debt undermines the dignity of millions, stifles development, and traps nations in cycles of poverty,” he said.
Bishop Charles Sampa Kasonde, Chairman of AMECEA, echoed these concerns, emphasizing the need for a just and compassionate financial system. “Our vision for Jubilee 2025 is to see an Africa liberated from the constraints of unjust debt, thriving within a fair global financial system, and strengthened by ethical leadership and robust governance,” he said.
Faith leaders are drawing from the theological foundation of the Jubilee Year, which symbolizes renewal, hope, and liberation. The campaign is also inspired by Pope Francis’s call for a more just economic system that prioritizes equity and the protection of vulnerable communities.
Ahead of the official launch, a media workshop was held, bringing together journalists and editors from leading media houses. The session provided expert insights, data, and strategies to help media professionals report effectively on Africa’s debt crisis. The Catholic Church and its partners believe that solution-oriented journalism can play a crucial role in influencing policy changes and mobilizing public support.
Fr. Kayanda S.J., Director of the Jesuit Hakimani Center, emphasized the power of global solidarity. “Jubilee 2000 showed us the power of faith-driven action. Now, as we face new debt crises, we must unite—communities, civil society, and governments—to demand justice and economic transformation,” he said.
As the Jubilee 2025 movement gains momentum, Church leaders and advocacy groups are calling for governments, financial institutions, and international partners to take decisive action in restructuring Africa’s debt. The campaign’s theme, “Pilgrims of Hope”, underscores the urgent need for a global financial system that prioritizes human dignity over profit.
With Africa at a crossroads, the Jubilee 2025 Debt Cancellation Campaign offers a renewed opportunity to advocate for economic justice and sustainable development for millions across the continent.
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