Egypt has emerged as the African country with the highest debt to the International Monetary Fund (IMF) as of February 2025, according to data from the IMF. The country's total IMF credit outstanding stands at $8,173,127,517, followed closely by Kenya with a debt of $3,022,009,900.

The list, which includes other African countries such as Angola, Cote d'Ivoire, Ghana, Democratic Republic of Congo, Ethiopia, Cameroon, Senegal, and Tanzania, highlights the significant financial burden these nations face in repaying their debts to the IMF. Excessive debt accumulation, especially from organizations like the IMF, can jeopardize a nation's economic stability, leading to reduced policy flexibility, budgetary restrictions, and economic instability.

IMF loans can provide vital financial assistance in times of economic crisis, but an excessive dependency on them can have detrimental long-term effects. National budgets are the largest risks, given that they would immediately be under tremendous strain should debt loads get out of hand. As a result, a significant amount of a country's revenue is usually redirected to debt payments, leaving less money for infrastructure, healthcare, and education.

Furthermore, stringent policy requirements associated with significant IMF debt might restrict a nation's ability to make economic decisions. The IMF often forces debtor countries to enact structural changes, privatization orders, and austerity measures that might not be in line with their long-term development objectives. Ultimately, lowering IMF debt is critical for preserving financial sovereignty and ensuring that national resources are directed toward economic progress, public welfare, and long-term prosperity rather than endless debt repayments.

Notably, South Africa has made significant progress in reducing its debt to the IMF, dropping out of the top 10 list this month. In its place, Tanzania has taken the 10th spot. The development highlights the importance of responsible financial management and debt reduction strategies for African countries.

The full list of the top 10 African countries with the highest debt to the IMF in February 2025 is as follows:

1. Egypt - $8,173,127,517

2. Kenya - $3,022,009,900

3. Angola - $2,900,483,330

4. Cote d'Ivoire - $2,682,628,440

5. Ghana - $2,506,118,500

6. Democratic Republic of Congo - $1,789,100,000

7. Ethiopia - $1,460,452,500

8. Cameroon - $1,092,960,000

9. Senegal - $1,067,841,250

10. Tanzania - $1,009,260,000

The report serves as a reminder of the importance of responsible financial management and debt reduction strategies for African countries to ensure sustainable economic growth and development.