Africa Bids Farewell to AfDB President Dr. Adesina, Welcomes New Leader Dr. Sidi Ould Tah
Zambia’s Finance and National Planning Minister, Dr. Situmbeko Musokotwane, MP, has hailed the leadership of outgoing African Development Bank (AfDB) President Dr. Akinwumi Adesina, describing his tenure as transformative and impactful across Africa’s development landscape.
Speaking on behalf of the 81 Governors of the Bank Group during the closing plenary of the 2025 AfDB Annual Meetings in Abidjan, Côte d’Ivoire, Dr. Musokotwane delivered a vote of thanks that applauded Dr. Adesina’s strategic vision and groundbreaking achievements since assuming office in September 2015.
“We thank Dr. Adesina for his exceptional leadership and for spearheading results that have transformed lives across the continent,” said Dr. Musokotwane. “His commitment to the Bank’s High Five priorities impacted over 565 million people, while lending volumes exceeded $102 billion from 2015 to 2024.”
The Minister also acknowledged Dr. Adesina’s global influence, noting the expansion of the Bank’s convening power, participation in G7 and G20 forums, and innovative financing strategies—including the issuance of the first hybrid capital by a multilateral development bank.
Among the notable achievements under Dr. Adesina’s leadership were the successful mobilization of $23 billion in replenishments for the African Development Fund, a remarkable increase in private sector operations from $2 billion to $6 billion, and the Bank’s ability to maintain its prestigious AAA credit rating despite facing global challenges such as pandemics, climate shocks, and economic crises.
Dr. Musokotwane also welcomed Dr. Sidi Ould Tah as the newly elected President of the AfDB, expressing confidence in his leadership. “We know Dr. Tah well from his time at BADEA. I believe he will elevate the Bank to even greater heights,” he stated.
In his farewell message, Dr. Adesina extended warm congratulations to his successor: “I am delighted for my brother and friend. I wish him great success in the years ahead.”
The 2025 Annual Meetings concluded with a renewed sense of direction for the AfDB under new leadership, as member states reaffirmed their commitment to advancing inclusive and sustainable development across Africa.
