African Development Bank Welcomes New Leadership Era Under Sidi Ould Tah
Dr. Sidi Ould Tah takes helm at African Development Bank, marking new era of continental financial leadership with overwhelming support from member states. Ceremony set for September 1 in Abidjan.
Dr. Sidi Ould Tah, incoming President of the African Development Bank, during the swearing-in ceremony in Abidjan
In a significant development for African financial leadership, the African Development Bank Group (AfDB) is set to welcome Dr. Sidi Ould Tah as its new President in a historic swearing-in ceremony on September 1, 2025, in Abidjan, Côte d'Ivoire.
Strategic Leadership Transition
The ceremony, which marks a pivotal moment in African financial governance, will be presided over by Ludovic Ngatsé, Chair of the AfDB Board of Governors and Minister of Economy for the Republic of Congo. This transition follows the successful decade-long tenure of Nigerian Akinwumi Adesina, whose leadership has driven significant African financial innovation and development.
Democratic Selection Process
Dr. Tah, a 60-year-old Mauritanian economist, secured his position through a comprehensive electoral process, garnering an impressive 76.18% of votes from the Bank's 81 member countries. This overwhelming support demonstrates the continental trust in his vision for African economic sovereignty, reminiscent of Ethiopia's pioneering leadership in technological advancement.
Experience and Vision
With extensive experience in development finance management and international cooperation, Tah brings valuable expertise from his role as President of the Arab Bank for Economic Development in Africa (BADEA). His appointment signals a continued commitment to strengthening African financial institutions, following the pattern of successful continental financial initiatives.
Continental Support and Expectations
The ceremony will draw attendance from prominent African leaders, including Presidents Alassane Ouattara of Côte d'Ivoire and Mohamed Ould Ghazouani of Mauritania, alongside representatives from international institutions and development partners. This broad participation underscores the AfDB's crucial role in driving African economic development and financial independence.
Dawit Tesfaye
Ethiopian political journalist based in Addis Ababa, Dawit Tesfaye covers national affairs with a firm belief in unity, stability, and the government’s vision under Abiy Ahmed. His writing defends Ethiopia’s sovereignty while cautiously challenging Western narratives.