JCAM 2023 05 Annual Review One of the most remarkable aspects of this year's event was the fact that it marked the first time in five decades that the IMF and World Bank convened in Africa. This historic occasion offered a unique opportunity for global financial leaders to engage with the pressing challenges facing the African continent. JENA seized this moment, ensuring that the voices of Africa's most vulnerable populations were heard loud and clear. Africa, despite its vast potential and resources, faces daunting challenges. Nearly 600 million people out of its 1.3 billion population endure extreme and unacceptable poverty. Approximately 280 million individuals go to bed hungry, a stark reminder of the need to address food insecurity. Many African economies are still reeling from the aftermath of the COVID-19 pandemic, further exacerbated by the shocks of regional conflicts, rising living costs, and an exceptionally high vulnerability to climate change. Speaking of climate change, it too is a global challenge, but Africa bears the brunt of its consequences. As African Heads of State emphasized in their recent Nairobi Summit, the continent is not historically responsible for the emissions causing global warming. Yet, it suffers disproportionately from the devastating impacts, affecting lives, livelihoods, and entire economies. In 2025, the Catholic Church will celebrate a new Jubilee year under the motto "Pilgrims of Hope." This Jubilee, as envisioned by the Holy Father, holds the potential to restore hope and trust, paving the way for renewal and rebirth. JENA understands that to achieve this, universal solidarity must be embraced, and the tragedy of rampant poverty must be confronted head-on. As we reflect on the significance of the 2023 Annual Meetings, we earnestly pray that the global financial leaders who gathered in Marrakech will heed the imperative to "choose life, so both we and our children may live" (Dt 30:19). In alignment with the upcoming Jubilee year, we call upon these leaders to take decisive action: » Debt Relief: Remove the obstacle of debt that hinders countries from investing in crisis response and protecting the most vulnerable. Debt relief remains as crucial today as it was when first emphasized by the Holy Father in 1999. Resolving debt crises today requires addressing the challenges posed by multiple Ellyanne (centre), a Children’s Climate Finance creditors, including private entities. Champion from Kenya, addressed African Faith Leaders during their meeting to address Africa’s multiple crises, including debt.