AFDB Must Drive African Transformation With African Solutions – Finance Minister
Zambia’s Minister of Finance and National Planning, Dr. Situmbeko Musokotwane, has called for a bold shift in Africa’s development approach, urging the African Development Bank (AfDB) to be a catalyst for transformation powered by African solutions and resources.
In a statement reflecting the 2025 theme of “Making Africa’s Capital Work Better for Africa’s Development,” Dr. Musokotwane emphasized that Africa is at a turning point and must begin to effectively mobilize its financial, human, and natural resource capital to drive sustainable, inclusive growth.
“The time has come for Africa to take ownership of its destiny,” Dr. Musokotwane said, calling on leaders and institutions to invest in local processing of natural resources to create jobs, reduce economic migration, and ensure value addition remains within the continent.
He stressed the need for stronger regional integration, particularly in payment systems and capital markets, to mobilize domestic resources for development.
Additionally, he underlined the importance of expanding access to quality education and healthcare to improve productivity and ensure long-term competitiveness.
“Education is the cross-generational equalizer,” Dr. Musokotwane said. “It empowers children from all backgrounds to succeed and builds a foundation for a healthy, productive workforce.”
As Africa prepares for a new chapter of leadership at the AfDB, Dr. Musokotwane stated that Africans expect transformative leadership that will turn aspirations into concrete outcomes.
“The African Development Bank should be at the forefront of transforming Africa — driven by African solutions, powered by African resources, and shared by all of Africa’s people,” he concluded.
