The AIDS Healthcare Foundation has urged African leaders to end debt injustice and redirect resources to youth health, education, and social protection.

The foundation made the call in a statement on Tuesday to mark ‘Day of the African Child 2026’.

AHF said Africa’s young population cannot thrive when governments prioritise debt servicing over investment in people.

“As the world’s youngest continent, Africa’s greatest asset is its youth. Their aspirations for healthy and prosperous futures cannot be realised when debt payments come before healthcare, education, and social protection,” the foundation said.

AHF noted that youth needs are interconnected, covering HIV prevention, youth-friendly health services, quality education, gender equality, protection from violence, and economic empowerment.

It said the unjust global debt system limits governments’ ability to fund these areas.

Through its ‘Freedom from Debt’ campaign, AHF is calling for reforms that put “people before profit” to free fiscal space for youth investment.

The foundation cited its Girls Act and BoysIIMen programmes that build leadership, health literacy, and safe advocacy spaces for young people.

NAN reports that the African Child is observed every June 16 to commemorate the 1976 Soweto Uprising,

AHF said 50 years later, the day remains a call for leaders to ensure every child has resources and opportunities to build their future.

The foundation, the world’s largest HIV/AIDS organisation, serves over three million people across 50 countries. 

(NAN)