“This paper revealed numerous debt sustainability challenges emanating from COVID-19
pandemic. While SADC member countries have put in place various stimulus packages to
respond to the pandemic, this will exacerbate the already precarious debt situation in the
region. As such, there is need for an amicable debt restructuring programme to avoid or
mitigate the social costs associated with servicing debt under difficult macroeconomic
conditions. Going forward, there is need for civil society and parliaments to emphasise the
need for effective public debt management. Strengthening debt management transparent
and reporting will create a culture of responsible borrowing and in the process assist
countries to withstand future shocks that have implications on debt sustainability”.
