Uganda Hosts 5th African Conference on Debt and Development, Launches Maputo Manifesto for Economic Sovereignty
Uganda has hosted to the fifth edition of the African Conference on Debt and Development (AfCoDD V), convened at Hotel Africana in Kampala.
Wednesday, organized by the Uganda Debt Network in collaboration with the African Forum and Network on Debt and Development (AFRODAD), the high level gathering focused on Africa’s debt crisis, economic justice, and strategies for reclaiming economic sovereignty.
The conference also marked the official launch of the Maputo Manifesto 2024, a bold continental declaration advocating for debt justice, feminist economic transformation, and the dismantling of oppressive financial structures.
Speaking at the event, Ms. Fidelite Nshimiyimana of AFRODAD drew attention to the persistent issue of corruption in Africa’s borrowing practices. “When we talk about reparations and debt justice, we must also address corruption,” she said.
“There is a troubling trend of 'budgeted corruption' where even before a loan is secured, there is already an informal arrangement of who gets what share. This means a large chunk of borrowed funds never reaches the people or services that truly need it, sabotaging both development and accountability.”
Originally issued in August 2024 during the fourth edition of AfCoDD in Maputo, Mozambique, the Maputo Manifesto outlines Pan-African feminist perspectives and alternatives to the current debt and development paradigms. It presents a radical vision for reimagining Africa’s future based on equality, inclusion, and sovereignty.
The key recommendations in the Maputo Manifesto 2024 include the Investing in women’s leadership and recognizing their contributions to economic and social development. Ensuring women have access to resources and platforms to share their experiences and influence policy
Increasing women’s representation in political and economic decision-making, especially in debt and development matters. Reforming political parties and creating inclusive electoral systems that reflect diverse voices
Promoting care based economies that guarantee equitable access to resources, opportunities, and benefits. Encouraging African governments to present a united front in global economic negotiations
Adopting policies that dismantle patriarchal and neocolonial systems. Establishing strong regional institutions capable of defending Africa’s interests and positioning Africa as a rule maker in global governance rather than a passive rule taker
Delegates at AfCoDD V echoed the urgency of these reforms, emphasizing that Africa must take control of its financial destiny. The conference concluded with a renewed call for solidarity among African nations in demanding fairer, more transparent, and accountable debt systems.
