We delved into the profound impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on Africa's sovereign debt situation and its implications for the region. Currently, 22 African countries are grappling with the burden of debt distress or high-risk situations, with Mozambique and Zimbabwe already in the throes of this crisis.

The ongoing conflict between Russia and Ukraine has only exacerbated the situation, leading to rising commodity prices, particularly in food and gasoline, and disruptions in critical supply chains like fertilizers. The changing landscape of debt composition further complicates these challenges. African countries owe more to a broader spectrum of creditors, including emerging powers like China and India.

To shed light on these complex issues and explore potential solutions, Prof Danny Bradlow – Professor and Senior Research Fellow in the Centre of Advancement of Scholarship, University of Pretoria, was my guest.