Cameroonian politician Dominique Yamb Ntimba has voiced his disagreement with Senegalese Prime Minister Ousmane Sonko regarding the issue of African debt cancellation. According to Yamb Ntimba, this approach would not constitute a sustainable solution for the continent.
Yamb Ntimba argues that even if all creditor countries were to cancel Africa's debt, it would quickly rebuild due to the continent's fragmentation, the presence of the CFA franc, and the influence of mercenaries. He criticizes a certain naivety in seeking external solutions, suggesting that Africa should rely more on its own thinkers and local realities.
"We do not need our debts to be cancelled (we can and will pay them, out of dignity and historical responsibility)," Yamb Ntimba asserts. He insists on the need for Africa to assert its sovereignty, implement sovereign management levers such as its own currency, industrialization, a firm geopolitical position, adapted education, and the development of Pan-Africanism.
According to Yamb Ntimba, the time for speeches is over, and it is time to act. He suggests that Ousmane Sonko turn to the Alliance of Sahel States (AES) to find concrete solutions.
Ousmane Sonko, Prime Minister of Senegal since April 2024, has made the issue of African debt a key focus. He has advocated for a 20 to 30-year respite to allow Africa to focus on its economic growth without being stifled by debt servicing. Sonko has also criticized international financial institutions, believing that they have a vested interest in keeping Africa in poverty.
