The Race to Lead the African Development Bank Heats Up Ahead of May Elections
As Dr. Akinwumi Adesina’s final term as President of the African Development Bank (AfDB) nears its end, the race to lead Africa’s premier development institution intensifies. On May 29, 2025, during the Bank’s Annual Meetings, the Board of Governors will elect a new president—one who will guide the AfDB through critical economic and developmental challenges.
Following a Steering Committee meeting in February in Abidjan, Côte d’Ivoire, five candidates were shortlisted, each bringing unique experience and a vision for Africa’s future.
Amadou Hott (Senegal): Former Minister of Economy and Vice President at AfDB, Hott is known for his work on green growth and energy transition. His focus is on climate resilience and sustainable development as economic opportunities.
Dr. Samuel Munzele Maimbo (Zambia): With over 30 years in development finance, including key roles at the World Bank, Maimbo advocates for financial integration, sound governance, and private sector investment across Africa.
Dr. Sidi Ould Tah (Mauritania): Former Director-General of the Arab Bank for Economic Development in Africa (BADEA), Ould Tah emphasizes regional cooperation, infrastructure, and trade facilitation through multilateral partnerships.
Abbas Mahamat Tolli (Chad): As former Governor of the Bank of Central African States, Tolli led financial reforms that improved regional stability. He aims to position the AfDB as a pillar of macroeconomic support and reliability.
Bajabulile Swazi Tshabalala (South Africa): With decades of public and private sector experience, including as former CFO at AfDB, Tshabalala champions modernization, digital finance, and institutional efficiency to drive inclusive growth.
The new president will oversee a bank with over $208 billion in capital and a growing mandate amid climate change, debt challenges, and regional instability. Their leadership will shape development priorities in infrastructure, energy, agriculture, and economic integration.
