By Stephen Adeleye
The AIDS Healthcare Foundation (AHF) Nigeria, has urged African leaders to break the cycle of debt injustice that diverts critical resources away from healthcare, education, and youth development.
The foundation made the call in statement by its Senior Advocacy & Marketing Manager Steve Aborisade, to mark the Day of the African Child 2026,
AHF said Africa’s youngest population cannot thrive when governments are forced to prioritize debt servicing over social investment.
“As the world’s youngest continent, Africa’s greatest asset is its young people. But their aspirations for healthy, educated, and prosperous futures cannot be realized when nations are forced to prioritize debt payments over investments in healthcare, education, and social protection,” the statement read.
AHF noted that young people’s needs are interconnected — from HIV prevention and youth-friendly health services to quality education, gender equality, protection from violence, and economic empowerment.
The organization said an unjust global debt system continues to limit governments’ ability to fund these services.
Through its “Freedom from Debt” campaign, AHF is pushing for urgent reforms that place “people before profit” and free up fiscal space for countries to invest in youth.
The foundation said a future free from unsustainable debt means more young people staying in school, accessing quality healthcare, and contributing to stronger societies.
The group also highlighted its youth-focused programs, including Girls Act and Boys2Men, which work with young people to build leadership, improve health literacy, advance sexual and reproductive health rights, and create safe advocacy spaces.
The Day of the African Child, observed every June 16, commemorates the 1976 Soweto Uprising when South African students were killed while protesting apartheid education inequalities.
AHF said fifty years later, the day remains a call for leaders to listen to young people and ensure every child has the resources and opportunities to build the future they deserve.
About AHF
AIDS Healthcare Foundation is the world’s largest HIV/AIDS healthcare organization, providing medicine and advocacy to over 3 million people across 50 countries. In January 2025, AHF received the MLK, Jr. Social Justice Award from The King Center.
