The Association of Member Episcopal Conferences in Eastern Africa (AMECEA), the Jesuit Justice and Ecology Network Africa (JENA), Caritas Africa, and the Symposium of Episcopal Conferences of Africa and Madagascar (SECAM) have officially launched the Jubilee 2025 Debt Cancellation Campaign at Radisson Blu, Upper Hill.
This initiative, inspired by Pope Francis’s call for a Jubilee Year, aims to mobilize efforts for the cancellation of unjust debts and to advocate for reforms in the global financial system.
Grounded in Catholic social justice principles, the campaign aligns with the 2025 theme, “Pilgrims of Hope,” which emphasizes economic fairness, equity, and support for vulnerable communities.
“Our vision is an Africa free from unjust debt, thriving under a fair financial system, and strengthened by ethical leadership,” stated Bishop Charles Sampa Kasonde, Chairman of AMECEA.
“Debt is not just an economic issue—it is a moral one,” remarked Fr. Charles Chilufya, S.J., Director of JENA. “Unjust debt undermines dignity, stifles development, and traps nations in poverty. The Church stands in solidarity with those affected, advocating for systemic change.”
Building on the success of Jubilee 2000
Jubilee 2025 takes inspiration from Jubilee 2000, a global movement that achieved over $100 billion in debt relief for countries such as Uganda, Mozambique, and Tanzania. The investments that followed in health, education, and infrastructure significantly improved lives.
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“Jubilee 2000 demonstrated that faith communities, civil society, and governments can drive transformative change,” said Fr. Kayanda S.J., Director of the Jesuit Hakimani Center. “Jubilee 2025 aims to reignite that spirit of hope and action.”
Addressing Africa’s Debt Crisis
At present, 22 African nations are either in or at risk of debt distress. The COVID-19 pandemic and global economic shocks have exacerbated this crisis, forcing nations to prioritize debt repayments over essential services.
A Call to Action
The campaign seeks to: Secure the cancellation of unjust debts.
