Sema Fonkem 29/05/2025

Dr. Sidi Ould Tah from Mauritania has been chosen by the African Development Bank (AFDB) Board of Governors as the group’s new leader after annual meetings held from 26th to 29th May at the AFDB headquarters in Abidjan, Côte d’Ivoire.

Tah, now 60 years old, has over 35 years of experience and AAA rating as a global finance expert after serving various African and International organisations. His 10-year hardwork placed the Arab Bank of Economic Development (BADEA) at the number one spot amongst banks that are focused on Africa’s development. Tah met the minimum requirement of atleast 50.1% votes from both regional and non-regional members.

The results were announced by Côte d’Ivoire’s Minister of Planning and Development and the Chairman of the Board of Governors, Niale Kaba. The Board of Governors which is AFDB Group highest decision making authority is comprised of Finance and Economy Ministers, Central Bank Governors of AFDB’s 81 regional and non-regional member countries.

Tah’s five-year term of office as president will commence on the 1st of September 2025 after Dr. Akinwumi Adesina completes his second mandate. Much is expected from Tah to carry on with AFDB’s legacy spanning six decades.

Critique Africa congratulates Dr. Sidi Ould Tah and wishes him all the best as he embarks on this journey to make Africa great.