Guelleh Praises Adesina’s Ten Years of Visionary Partnership and Progress in Africa
Djibouti’s President Ismaïl Omar Guelleh has commended Dr Akinwumi A. Adesina, outgoing President of the African Development Bank Group, for a decade of visionary leadership that he said brought Africa “to the global stage” and opened “a new way of thinking” about development.
Speaking during a bilateral meeting on 27 August in Djibouti, President Guelleh praised Adesina’s unwavering commitment to Africa’s progress across key sectors. “We are grateful to you. You have shown us what a dignified Africa can achieve with will and determination,” he said.
Dr Adesina, who concludes his ten-year tenure as the Bank’s eighth president, highlighted the institution’s support for Djibouti in energy, agriculture, transport, water and sanitation, and the COVID-19 response. Since 2015, the Bank has invested $110 million in the country, contributing to regional integration, energy transition, climate resilience and social inclusion.
Among the flagship projects delivered under Adesina’s presidency are the Ethiopia-Djibouti Interconnection Lines, which have reduced energy costs and expanded electricity access; the Doraleh Container Terminal, reinforcing Djibouti’s role as a logistics hub; and the Drought Resilience and Sustainable Livelihoods Project, which improved food security for vulnerable communities.
The Bank’s support has also extended to drinking water and sanitation services for over 660,000 people and 350,000 livestock, COVID-19 testing for 1.5 million people, and cash transfers to 75,000 vulnerable households. Initiatives in youth empowerment, women’s entrepreneurship, and governance reforms have further strengthened Djibouti’s Vision 2035 agenda.
Reflecting on the partnership, Adesina said: “It has been an honour to work alongside your government to support sustainable development and peace. Our joint efforts show that Africa’s future is bright when we work together with purpose and unity.”
President Guelleh added: “The caravan must continue on its path. With partners like the African Development Bank, we know our journey is secure.”
Since 1975, the Bank has financed more than 60 projects in Djibouti with a total investment exceeding $528 million.
