Sidi Ould Tah—a seasoned economist and former Mauritanian Minister of Economic Affairs and Development—has been elected President of the African Development Bank (AfDB) during the institution’s annual meetings in Abidjan, Côte d’Ivoire.
Ould Tah secured 48.41% of the total votes, defeating Amadou Hott of Senegal, who garnered 9.2%. Samuel Maimbo of Zambia received 36.68%, while Swazi Tshabalala of South Africa polled 5.90%.
This pivotal election comes at a critical time as the African continent seeks deeper economic partnerships and sustainable development strategies.
The AfDB’s annual meetings drew participation from 81 shareholder countries, reflecting the institution’s global significance.
Ould Tah previously served as Director General of the Arab Bank for Economic Development in Africa (BADEA) and brings over three decades of experience in African finance, development policy, and international cooperation.
Strategic choice for Africa’s future
Ould Tah’s appointment signals a renewed focus on economic resilience, climate action, and infrastructure development across the continent.
With his extensive experience in both public and private sector finance, stakeholders are hopeful for a revitalised push toward inclusive growth and innovative development financing.
Four candidates contested for the top position at a time when the bank faced numerous challenges, including foreign aid cuts, the withdrawal of U.S. support under President Donald Trump, and ongoing repercussions from global trade tensions.
