The Steering Committee of the Board of Governors on the Election of the President of the African Development Bank convened on 11 and 12 February 2025 at the Bank Group’s headquarters in Abidjan, Côte d’Ivoire. During the meeting, the committee reviewed and cleared the official list of candidates for the prestigious role of President of the African Development Bank (AfDB).
The election is scheduled to take place on 29 May 2025, as part of the Bank’s Annual Meetings from 26 to 30 May 2025 in Abidjan. The following individuals have been shortlisted as candidates for the presidency:
Mr. HOTT Amadou (Senegal)
Dr. MAIMBO Samuel Munzele (Zambia)
Mr. TAH Sidi Ould (Mauritania)
Mr. TOLLI Abbas Mahamat (Chad)
Ms. TSHABALALA Bajabulile Swazi (South Africa)
The President of the African Development Bank is a critical role governed by the institution’s foundational principles. In accordance with Article 37 of the Agreement Establishing the Bank, the President serves as the Chairperson of the Board of Directors, the chief executive of the staff, and the legal representative of the Bank. The President oversees the Bank’s operations and implements its strategic vision, under the direction of the Board of Directors.
The election process is guided by Article 36 of the Agreement Establishing the Bank, which stipulates that the President is elected by the Board of Governors for a renewable five-year term. The Rules of Procedure Governing the Election of the President also mandate that the election occurs during the Annual Meeting closest to the end of the serving President’s term.
Leadership Legacy
The current President, Dr. Akinwumi A. Adesina of Nigeria, has served two terms since his election on 28 May 2015. His first term commenced on 1 September 2015, and following his re-election on 27 August 2020, he began his final five-year term on 1 September 2020. Dr. Adesina’s tenure has been marked by transformative initiatives in areas such as agriculture, infrastructure, and industrialization, solidifying the Bank’s role as a cornerstone of Africa’s economic development.
Election Process and Timetable
As outlined in Resolution B/BG/2024/08, adopted by the Board of Governors on 29 May 2024, the timetable and procedures for the election have been clearly defined. The upcoming election represents a pivotal moment for the African Development Bank, as the institution prepares to transition to new leadership and continue its mission of fostering sustainable economic development and social progress across Africa.
The shortlisted candidates reflect the diversity and expertise of the continent, and the election promises to shape the future trajectory of Africa’s premier financial institution.
Story by: Mercy Addai Turkson #ahotoronline.com
