Abidjan, Côte d’Ivoire – May 29, 2025
The African Development Bank (AfDB) has elected Dr. Sidi Ould Tah of Mauritania as its ninth president, marking a significant leadership transition for one of Africa’s premier financial institutions. The election took place during the bank’s annual meetings in Abidjan, Côte d’Ivoire.
A Decisive Victory
Dr. Ould Tah secured a commanding 76.18% of the vote in the third round, surpassing competitors including Zambia’s Samuel Maimbo (20.26%) and Senegal’s Amadou Hott (3.55%). Other candidates, such as Chad’s Mahamat Abbas Tolli and South Africa’s Swazi Tshabalala, were eliminated in earlier rounds .
He is set to assume office on September 1, 2025, succeeding Dr. Akinwumi Adesina of Nigeria, who will conclude his second five-year term .
Extensive Experience in Development Finance
Dr. Ould Tah brings over 35 years of experience in African and international finance. Notably, he served as President of the Arab Bank for Economic Development in Africa (BADEA) from 2015 to 2025. During his tenure, BADEA underwent significant transformation, quadrupling its balance sheet and achieving a AAA credit rating .
His career also includes roles as Mauritania’s Minister of Economic Affairs and Finance and senior positions in multilateral institutions, where he led initiatives in crisis response, financial reform, and resource mobilization .
Challenges Ahead
Dr. Ould Tah’s presidency begins amid pressing challenges. The AfDB faces potential funding cuts, with the U.S. proposing a $555 million reduction to the African Development Fund, which supports over 30 of Africa’s poorest nations. Additionally, the bank aims to raise $25 billion in its current replenishment round, a significant increase from the $8.9 billion achieved three years prior .
The continent grapples with fiscal strain, rising debt, climate change, and a financing gap estimated at over $400 billion annually. Dr. Ould Tah is expected to advance the African Financial Stability Mechanism to address debt-induced crises and manage the impacts of global economic shifts .
A Vision for Africa’s Development
In his victory speech, Dr. Ould Tah pledged to strengthen the AfDB’s mission of promoting sustainable development, financing critical infrastructure, and supporting economic transformation across the continent .
His election is seen as a significant milestone for Mauritania, elevating its presence within Africa’s premier development finance institution.
For more information, please refer to the official announcement by the African Development Bank: AfDB Press Release.
