Shelter Afrique Appoints New Board Leadership
Shelter Afrique Development Bank (ShafDB), the Pan-African Multilateral Development Bank dedicated to financing housing, urban development, and related infrastructure, has announced the election of Mr Lionel Zinsou as Chairman of the Board of Directors and Mr Said Athman Mtwana as Vice Chairman.
The appointments were confirmed during the 149th Meeting of the Board of Directors held on 11 December 2025.
Mr Zinsou, a distinguished economist, seasoned investment banker, and former Prime Minister of the Republic of Benin (2015–2016), brings extensive experience in public policy, global finance, and private equity to the role.
Commenting on his appointment, Mr Zinsou said: “I am honoured to assume the Chairmanship of ShafDB at this pivotal moment in its transformation. Across our continent, the demand for dignified, affordable housing and vibrant urban environments is both urgent and inspiring. Together with my fellow Directors, I am committed to steering the Bank with clarity, purpose, and ambition; ensuring that our investments strengthen communities, unlock economic opportunity, and reflect Africa’s boundless potential.”
Mr Mtwana, representing Group 1 Member States, brings deep expertise in urban development policy, project planning, and built-environment economics, as well as extensive experience in senior government roles relating to national housing and land policy.
He stated: “It is a privilege to serve as Vice Chairman of a Bank whose mission speaks directly to the aspirations of millions of African families. I look forward to working closely with the Board and Management to deepen ShafDB’s impact, advance innovative urban development solutions, and uphold the governance needed to deliver lasting, inclusive growth across our Member States.”
Mr Mtwana holds a Master’s degree in Urban and Regional Planning and a Bachelor of Arts in Building Economics from the University of Nairobi, Kenya.
Shelter Afrique Managing Director Thierno-Habib Hann welcomed the new board leadership and expressed gratitude to the outgoing Chairperson, Dr Chii Akporji, and outgoing Vice Chairman, Mr Ahmed Belayat, for their dedicated service.
“We warmly welcome Mr Lionel Zinsou and Mr Said Athman Mtwana to their new leadership roles at Shelter Afrique Development Bank. Their combined expertise in global finance, public policy, and urban development comes at a defining moment in the Bank’s evolution. As we continue transforming into a fully-fledged Pan-African Development Bank, their guidance will be instrumental in advancing innovative housing finance solutions, strengthening partnerships, and accelerating inclusive, climate-resilient urban development across our Member States.”
“We also extend our sincere appreciation to Dr Chii Akporji and Mr Ahmed Belayat, whose principled leadership and strategic stewardship have laid a strong foundation for the next phase of the Bank’s growth,” Mr Hann added.
The leadership transition underscores ShafDB’s commitment to financing affordable housing and sustainable urban development across Africa. Under the guidance of its newly appointed Chairman and Vice Chairman, the Bank is well-positioned to advance its vision for inclusive, resilient, and innovative urban growth on the continent.
