Abidjan–
Mauritania’s Sidi Ould Tah has been elected as the new President of the African Development Bank Group (AfDB), following a highly competitive election process. He is set to assume office on September 1, 2025, succeeding Dr. Akinwumi Adesina, who will be concluding his decade-long tenure at the helm of the continent’s foremost development finance institution.
Mr. Tah brings to the position a wealth of experience in finance, economic development, and multilateral cooperation. Prior to his election, he served as the Director General of the Arab Bank for Economic Development in Africa (BADEA), where he led initiatives that significantly enhanced economic integration and infrastructure development across the continent. His leadership at BADEA has been marked by strategic reforms and an increase in financial commitments to African countries.
Dr. Akinwumi Adesina, a globally respected development economist and former Nigerian Minister of Agriculture, has led the AfDB since 2015. His tenure is widely praised for strengthening the Bank’s financial capacity, launching bold initiatives such as the “High 5” development priorities, and increasing the institution’s global influence. Under his leadership, the AfDB secured a historic capital increase and provided critical support during the COVID-19 pandemic.
We extend sincere congratulations to Dr. Adesina for a decade of impactful leadership, and warmly welcome Mr. Sidi Ould Tah as he prepares to take on this crucial role. With Africa’s financial and development needs growing more urgent, especially in areas like energy, infrastructure, climate resilience, and job creation, Mr. Tah’s leadership will be vital.
The African financial sector requires continued and increased capital injection, innovation, and inclusive growth strategies. It is our hope that Mr. Tah will build upon the strong foundation laid by his predecessor, and drive the AfDB to even greater heights—for the benefit of all Africans.
