ABIDJAN – Sidi Ould Tah, a Mauritanian economist and veteran in development finance, has been elected president of the African Development Bank (AfDB) on Thursday.
His election represents a key development in Africa’s financial leadership as he prepares to guide the institution toward stronger economic transformation across the continent.
Ould Tah secured 76.18 % of the vote, achieving a strong lead over Zambian candidate Samuel Maimbo, who received 20.26 %.
The election involved several rounds of voting before confirming Ould Tah as the ninth president of the AfDB. He will take over from Nigeria’s Akinwumi Adesina.
“This marks the beginning of a challenging yet inspiring journey — together, we will drive Africa’s transformation with unity, ambition, and purpose,” Ould Tah posted on X, formerly Twitter.
After the announcement, Maimbo shared a message on social media congratulating Ould Tah.
He said, “This race was driven by a deep commitment to Africa’s future, and today, the Governors have chosen the leader they believe will best deliver that vision. My heartfelt thanks to all who supported this journey. The work for Africa’s prosperity continues.”
A Career in Development Finance
Ould Tah brings more than 35 years of experience in African and international finance. He began his career at the Mauritanian Bank for Development and Commerce and later worked in financial analysis and investment promotion.
As Mauritania’s minister of economic affairs and finance, he helped shape national economic policies.
Over the past decade, he led the Arab Bank for Economic Development in Africa, overseeing an institutional overhaul.
During his leadership, the bank’s balance sheet increased fourfold, earning a AAA credit rating and positioning it among Africa’s top-rated development finance institutions.
His Vision for the AfDB
Ould Tah plans to expand the bank’s role by turning it into a dynamic force for change.
He aims to channel capital, technology, and partnerships to drive industrial development, improve infrastructure, and support growth that reaches all sectors of society.
He has highlighted the importance of scale and efficiency. His priorities include multiplying available financing through innovative tools, stronger risk management, and collaboration between public and private sectors.
He also supports digital tools such as artificial intelligence and data analysis to improve the bank’s performance and transparency.
A Pivotal Time for Africa
Ould Tah takes office as the continent navigates climate threats and economic uncertainty. His leadership will be central in helping the AfDB direct resources toward continental priorities, including Agenda 2063 and the Sustainable Development Goals.
He begins his term on Sept. 1, 2025, following the completion of Dr. Akinwumi Adesina’s second term. Given his history of financial reform and crisis response, many expect Ould Tah to lead the AfDB into a period of innovation and strategic focus.
With 81 members, he faces the significant responsibility of strengthening the bank’s foundation and sustaining its role as a leading driver of economic progress amid evolving global financial conditions.
