Dr. Daniel Cash joined Newzroom Afrika to examine how sovereign credit ratings affect borrowing costs for African governments and shape their ability to fund priorities such as health, education, and infrastructure. He explained how the dominance of three major private rating agencies – Moody’s, S&P Global and Fitch – creates structural constraints for countries seeking affordable access to international capital markets.
In the conversation, Dr. Cash highlighted the disconnect between the global financial system and the realities facing many African economies, noting that ratings often lag behind reform efforts and can limit market access even when governments undertake significant policy changes. He also discussed the importance of strengthening domestic financial infrastructure, improving data systems, and building more effective coordination between governments and external financial actors.
Watch the interview on Newzroom Afrika here.
