📍 Lusaka, Zambia – The battle for the presidency of Africa’s premier development finance institution, the African Development Bank (AfDB), is intensifying as candidates from Zambia, Senegal, and Mauritania formally enter the race to succeed Nigeria’s Akinwumi Adesina when his term ends in October.
🔹 Zambia’s Samuel Maimbo, a former World Bank senior official, officially launched his campaign today, backed by SADC (Southern African Development Community) and COMESA (Common Market for Eastern and Southern Africa). He faces tough competition from:
✅ Amadou Hott (Senegal) – Special Envoy of the Alliance for Green Infrastructure in Africa
✅ Sidi Ould Tah (Mauritania) – Former Director General of the Arab Bank for Economic Development in Africa
Why This Election Matters for Africa 🌍
The AfDB plays a critical role in financing Africa’s development, being the only African financial institution rated Triple A by Moody’s, Standard & Poor’s, and Fitch. With elections set for May 29 in Abidjan, Côte d’Ivoire, the outcome will shape Africa’s economic trajectory for years to come.
Samuel Maimbo’s Vision for Africa 🚀
Maimbo, a seasoned economist and development strategist, has pledged to transform Africa’s economy by:
🔹 Expanding Africa’s share of global trade beyond the current 3%
🔹 Strengthening regional markets and fostering economic unification
🔹 Modernizing agriculture and infrastructure to enhance productivity
🔹 Accelerating energy access to power industries and improve livelihoods
“Africa stands at a critical juncture,” Maimbo stated in his official campaign launch. “We need to get one billion people to work as quickly as possible by strategically supporting industries that improve livelihoods and drive prosperity.”
The SADC & COMESA Factor: A Game Changer?
Maimbo’s candidacy has gained momentum following SADC and COMESA’s endorsement, positioning him as a strong contender. Even South Africa, initially backing its own candidate, Bajabulile Tshabalala, has now thrown its weight behind Maimbo.
A Historic Opportunity for Zambia 🇿🇲
If elected, Maimbo would become only the second Zambian to hold the AfDB Presidency after Wila Mungomba (1980–1985). His extensive experience includes serving as:
✅ Vice President of Budget, Performance Review & Strategic Planning at the World Bank
✅ Chief of Staff to successive World Bank Presidents
✅ Lead in securing a $90 billion financing package under the International Development Association (IDA)
What’s Next? 🤔
With just a few months to go, Africa watches closely as candidates make their final pitches to regional blocs, governments, and key stakeholders.
🔥 Do you think Zambia’s Samuel Maimbo is the right leader to drive Africa’s development? Let’s discuss in the comments! 👇🏽
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