Abidjan, Côte d’Ivoire — The African Development Bank (AfDB) is hosting its 2025 Annual Meetings from May 26 to 30 in Abidjan, under the theme: “Making Africa’s Capital Work Better for Africa’s Development.” This gathering brings together over 6,000 delegates, including heads of state, finance ministers, development partners, and private sector leaders, to discuss strategies for harnessing Africa’s vast resources to drive sustainable growth.
Presidential Dialogue Highlights
A key event during the meetings is the Presidential Dialogue scheduled for Tuesday, May 27, at the Sofitel Abidjan Hôtel Ivoire. This high-level session will focus on leveraging Africa’s human, natural, financial, and commercial capital to foster inclusive and resilient economies. Discussions will address challenges such as heavy debt burdens, climate change, and the need for structural reforms in the global financial architecture.
Leadership Transition: AfDB Presidential Election
The Annual Meetings will also feature the election of a new AfDB President on Thursday, May 29, marking a significant leadership transition as Dr. Akinwumi Adesina concludes his tenure. Five candidates are vying for the position, each bringing unique visions for the Bank’s future:
- Swazi Tshabalala (South Africa): Former AfDB Senior Vice President, emphasizing internal restructuring to enhance focus on infrastructure and innovation in financial instruments.
- Amadou Hott (Senegal): Ex-Minister of Economy, advocating for African financial self-reliance by improving revenue mobilization and facilitating private-sector investments.
- Samuel Munzele Maimbo (Zambia): World Bank Vice President, promoting intra-African trade, regulatory streamlining, and a unified development approach across the continent.
- Sidi Ould Tah (Mauritania): Seasoned development banker, focusing on economic sovereignty, capital mobilization, formalizing Africa’s informal sector, and building climate-resilient infrastructure.
- Abbas Mahamat Tolli (Chad): Experienced financial leader, proposing enhanced governance, risk pooling, and digital finance mechanisms to curb resource mismanagement and promote self-sufficiency.
About the African Development Bank
Established in 1964, the African Development Bank is Africa’s premier multilateral development finance institution. With 81-member countries, the Bank provides funding, technical expertise, and policy advice to support African countries in implementing projects that improve infrastructure, healthcare, education, and more.
“As Africa’s leaders convene in Abidjan to shape the continent’s future, we pray for wisdom and unity. ‘Commit to the Lord whatever you do, and he will establish your plans.’ (Proverbs 16:3)”
