AfDB Member States Embrace Digital Coordination to Strengthen Operations
Senior government officials from African Development Bank Group (AfDB) member countries have endorsed a new digital platform to streamline coordination and boost the implementation of Bank-funded development operations at country level.
Held from 12–13 June 2025, the second High-Level Workshop on the Member States Engagement Framework convened Protocol Directors, Bank Governors’ focal points, and senior AfDB staff. The participants tackled operational challenges—especially around host country agreements, privileges and immunities, and project delivery hurdles.
Vincent Nmehielle, AfDB Secretary-General and chair of the workshop, praised the initiative as a vital move toward strengthening impact. “You are the key to ensuring Bank operations transform lives across Africa,” he said, calling for deeper cooperation at all levels.
A key highlight of the workshop was the adoption of a Bank-designed digital platform for real-time communication and experience-sharing. The platform will be supported by a central stakeholder database, including Protocol Directors, Country Managers, and Regional Officers.
The officials also examined ongoing constraints such as the non-recognition of AfDB laissez-passer travel documents and inconsistent application of VAT exemptions. Nmehielle stressed that a supportive legal and administrative environment is crucial for free movement, intra-African trade, and development.
The event also featured updates on AfDB’s decentralisation strategy, loan recovery mechanisms, governance structures, and sanctions policy. Looking ahead, the delegates agreed to host regional engagements in 2026, followed by a global meeting in 2027.
André Basse, Head of Protocol and Privileges at the Bank, presented key recommendations, which were well received. Kenya’s Head of Protocol described the workshop as “valuable” for enhancing country-level engagement.
