Typically as a last resort, countries often turn to the IMF in times of economic crisis to stabilize their financial systems. These loans help cushion the economic adversities said countries may be going through.

Loans from the global financier can also help buff the country’s finances until they can come up with a more sustainable solution to their economic problems. And, additionally, a loan from the IMF can boost a country’s credibility in the eyes of foreign investors. This rise in trust may result in higher foreign direct investment and better access to global capital markets.

However, these loans if not managed or utilized properly could hurt an economy. Aside from the fact that debts owed in general can cause financial stress in any economy, as it represents an expense that the country must take responsibility for, IMF loans often come with stringent conditions, including austerity measures such as reducing public spending, cutting subsidies, and implementing tax increases.

While these measures are intended to address fiscal imbalances, they can lead to social unrest and adversely affect vulnerable populations. These complications can also seep into the country’s exchange rate, making local currencies weaker than they should be.

With that said, below are the 10 African countries with the highest debts to the IMF, courtesy of the IMF’s official website. Also, the list captures the data as of the 6th of December 2023.