AfDB Appoints Dr. Bahati Sanga as Acting Senior Director and CIO
The African Development Bank (AfDB) has appointed Dr. Bahati Sanga as Acting Senior Director of Corporate Information Technology Services and Chief Information Officer (CIO), effective April 1, 2025.
A seasoned digital transformation expert and Tanzanian national, Dr. Sanga brings over 25 years of experience in strategic planning, information systems, and organizational reform across the banking and development finance sectors.
His appointment marks a pivotal step in strengthening the Bank’s digital infrastructure and aligning its IT capabilities with the institution’s long-term vision.
Dr. Sanga currently serves as Division Manager for Business Solutions at the AfDB, where he oversees digital service delivery across finance, operations, and corporate functions. He is widely recognized for driving product innovation and forging strong business partnerships within the Bank.
From 2022 to 2024, he previously held the role of Acting Director and CIO, during which he led the successful rollout of a transformative Digital Action Plan. This initiative introduced cutting-edge technologies, including artificial intelligence, robotic process automation, and cloud-based disaster recovery systems, resulting in improved efficiency in financial and corporate services.
His previous roles include Division Manager for Operations and Regional IT Coordination (2018–2024) and Division Manager for Client Services (2013–2018), where he led efforts to modernize service delivery and strengthen client engagement.
Dr. Sanga joined the African Development Bank in 2010. Prior to that, he was the Director and CIO at Tanzania Investment Bank (TIB), where he oversaw major digital reforms, including the implementation of a national electronic funds transfer system connecting 17 banks.
An advocate for leveraging technology to boost Africa’s economic resilience, Dr. Sanga has published widely on digital finance and FinTech innovation. He holds multiple degrees, including a doctorate and a master’s in development finance from Stellenbosch University, a master’s in computer science from McMaster University, and an MBA from ESAMI Business School.
Reacting to his appointment, Dr. Sanga said: “I am humbled and honored to have the trust and confidence of President Adesina to lead the IT Department. I look forward to continuing the implementation of the Digital Ambition 2030, aimed at modernizing our IT capabilities to support the Bank’s Ten-Year Strategy.”
His appointment is expected to further solidify the Bank’s role as a leader in digital innovation and infrastructure development across the continent.
