MEFMI convened the 2026 Heads of Debt Management Forum from 19 to 21 August 2026 in Nairobi, Kenya, bringing together Heads of Debt Management, senior government officials, technical experts, and representatives of regional and international cooperating institutions.
Held under the theme “Building Resilience through Innovation in Public Debt Management in Uncertain Times,” the Forum provided a platform for senior public debt practitioners and policymakers to exchange experiences, examine emerging challenges and explore practical approaches to strengthening public debt management across the MEFMI region.
The Forum was officially opened by Mr Raphael Otieno, Director General, Public Debt Management Directorate at the National Treasury of Kenya, following welcome remarks by MEFMI Executive Director Dr Louis Kasekende. Discussions took place against a backdrop of tighter global financial conditions, geopolitical tensions, climate-related shocks, and elevated borrowing costs.
Key discussions focused on the use of artificial intelligence, machine learning, automation and other digital technologies in debt recording and reporting, forecasting, risk management and evidence-based decision-making. Participants also explored domestic debt market development, innovative financing, public debt transparency and accountability, and approaches to diversifying funding sources while maintaining an appropriate balance between cost and risk.
The Forum brought together expertise from the International Monetary Fund, World Bank, Trade and Development Bank, Commonwealth Secretariat, UN Trade and Development, African Legal Support Facility, Financial Sector Deepening Africa, and the African Union Commission, alongside MEFMI and representatives from member countries.
The Forum reaffirmed the importance of regional cooperation, peer learning and knowledge exchange in strengthening public debt management. MEFMI continues to support member countries in developing resilient, transparent, and sustainable public debt management practices.
By Josephine Tito