….outlines his vision for Addressing Debt, Climate Change, and Job Creation Across Africa….
African Development Bank (AfDB) aspiring presidential candidate Dr. Samuel Maimbo has pledged to position the AfDB as the first point of contact for governments grappling with pressing issues such as debt, climate change, and unemployment.
During a series of interviews with leading media organisations in Paris on Tuesday, such as Radio France International and Jeune Afrique, Dr. Maimbo articulated his vision for impactful and efficient leadership that prioritises the needs of African nations. 
He committed to strategically investing in traditional sectors such as agriculture and the emerging creative industries, which he believes have enormous potential to generate the jobs Africa urgently needs. “My presidency will focus on ensuring that the AfDB operates efficiently, impacts lives, and delivers results at a pace and scale that can drive sustained economic growth across Africa,” he stated.
A seasoned development expert with over 30 years of experience, Dr. Maimbo expressed concern over the numerous successful projects in Africa that remain on a small scale. He stressed the importance of preparing the continent for intraregional trade and increasing investment in critical infrastructure and energy to create jobs for millions of youth. He also pledged to make the AfDB a facilitator-in-chief, working to bring together significant financing from both aid institutions and the private sector to accelerate development across the continent.
Dr. Maimbo further committed to strengthening partnerships established by outgoing AfDB President Akinwumi Adesina and plans to build robust partnerships with multilateral institutions, development partners, and the private sector to identify impactful projects that will make a significant difference on the African continent.
Additionally, Dr. Maimbo outlined his commitment to inclusive leadership, emphasizing the importance of bringing out the best of every AfDB member and working collectively to resolve challenges.
Dr. Maimbo’s candidacy is of critical importance to Africa. He has a proven track record of raising financial flows, allocating resources efficiently, and delivering development projects across the continent. As a former chief of staff to two World Bank presidents and the current Vice President of Budget and Performance Review at the World Bank, Dr. Maimbo brings vast experience in managing complex operations. His successful negotiation of the IDA 20 replenishment, which raised a record $93 billion during the challenging COVID-19 period, highlights his ability to deliver results.
Dr. Maimbo’s clear vision, extensive experience, and dedication resonate with governments seeking equitable access to financing for development, prosperity, and job creation. With extensive fundraising skills developed over many years, he has successfully secured significant resources and ensured they are allocated to the right priorities across the continent.
His candidacy has garnered significant support, including endorsements from regional organisations such as SADC and COMESA and remains committed to engaging directly with both African governments and non-regional members to earn their trust and support.
The AfDB presidential elections will take place on May 29, 2025, during the Bank’s Board of Governors meeting, which includes representatives from 54 African countries and 27 non-African countries that are shareholders of the Bank. Four other candidates from different African countries are also contesting the presidency.
During his engagement in Paris, Dr. Maimbo was accompanied by Chargé d’Affaires at the Embassy of Zambia, Mr. Chrissy Hilweele, and some mission staff.
