AU Chairperson Congratulates Dr. Sidi Ould Tah on Election as AfDB President
The Chairperson of the African Union (AU) Commission, H.E. Mahamoud Ali Youssouf, has officially congratulated Dr. Sidi Ould Tah on his election as the ninth President of the African Development Bank (AfDB) Group.
The Chairperson hailed Dr. Tah’s appointment as a reflection of his outstanding leadership and deep commitment to Africa’s development.
Dr. Tah, previously the Director General of the Arab Bank for Economic Development in Africa (BADEA), brings extensive expertise in economic policy and finance, positioning him well to steer the AfDB through a period marked by pressing development challenges and transformative opportunities.
“The African Development Bank is central to the realization of Agenda 2063,” Chairperson Youssouf said in a statement. “We look forward to strengthened collaboration on key initiatives such as the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA), the Programme for Infrastructure Development in Africa (PIDA), and the Africa Vaccine Manufacturing Initiative.”
The AU Chairperson emphasized the Bank’s critical role in supporting regional integration, infrastructure expansion, and inclusive economic growth.
He expressed full confidence in Dr. Tah’s ability to address the continent’s pressing priorities, including debt sustainability, climate resilience, food security, and digital transformation.
In his remarks, Chairperson Youssouf also extended heartfelt appreciation to outgoing AfDB President Dr. Akinwumi Adesina, recognizing his decade-long leadership and numerous achievements that have elevated the Bank’s profile on the global stage.
“We commend Dr. Adesina’s distinguished service and wish him success in his future endeavors,” Youssouf said.
Dr. Tah’s appointment comes at a pivotal moment for Africa, as the continent seeks innovative solutions to accelerate economic recovery, industrialization, and regional cooperation.
