Social Spending Targets in IMF-Supported Programs in Sub-Saharan Africa

Author: Ghislain Afavi, Vaishali Ashtakala, Irena Jankulov Suljagic, Pedro Juca Maciel, Myrto Oikonomou, Johanna Tiedemann, Luc Tucker, Arina Viseth, and Frederic Lambert

This paper reviews IMF-supported social spending targets in Sub-Saharan Africa (2002–2024), noting progress since 2009 reforms. Despite fiscal pressures, health and education spending rose, aiding outcomes. Refining targets can better protect the vulnerable.

Volume/Issue: Volume 2025 Issue 005

Publication date: September 2025

ISBN: 9798229014595

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Topics covered in this book

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Economics- Macroeconomics , Public Finance , social spending targets , IMF-supported programs , sub-Saharan Africa , fiscal policy , health , education , social protection , sustainable development goals (SDGs) , social spending target , spending target , IMF team , target in sub-Saharan Africa , IMF Library , Education spending , Health care spending , Total expenditures , Middle East and Central Asia

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Summary

This paper analyzes the significance and effectiveness of social spending targets in IMF-supported programs in Sub-Saharan Africa from 2002 to 2024. It highlights the evolution of these targets, particularly following the 2009 reform of IMF’s facilities for low-income countries, reflecting a growing recognition of the importance of safeguarding social expenditures amidst fiscal constraints. The findings reveal that social spending targets in the region represent a significant share of tax revenue, with a favorable completion rate in comparison to other fiscal conditionalities. Despite economic challenges, social spending on health and education has generally been preserved and even increased during IMF-supported programs, with positive outcomes such as improved educational enrollment and reduced infant mortality rates. The study underscores the importance of refining these targets to better serve vulnerable populations while adapting to changing economic conditions.