By 
Aspiring African Development Bank (AfDB) president, Dr. Samuel Maimbo, has outlined a bold vision to position the Bank as the leading institution for addressing Africa’s most pressing challenges, including debt, climate change, and unemployment.
In a series of interviews with prominent media outlets in Paris on Tuesday, including Radio France International and Jeune Afrique, Maimbo articulated his goal of impactful leadership that places the needs of African nations at the forefront.
The statement was released by Naomi Mweemba, First Secretary for Press at the Zambian Embassy in Paris.
Maimbo committed to investing strategically in both traditional sectors like agriculture and the emerging creative industries, which he expressed believe hold significant potential for job creation across the continent.
“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 in Africa,” Maimbo stated.
With over 30 years of development experience, Maimbo expressed concern about the many successful projects in Africa that have remained small in scale.
He emphasized the need for greater preparation for intra-regional trade and increased investment in critical infrastructure and energy, essential for generating millions of jobs for Africa’s youth.
“I also want to make the AfDB a facilitator-in-chief, working to bring together substantial financing from both aid institutions and the private sector to accelerate development across the continent,” Maimbo added.
Read More: Zambia’s Maimbo formally launches AfDB presidential bid, calls for bold leadership
He also pledged to build on the partnerships established by outgoing AfDB President Akinwumi Adesina, seeking to forge stronger relationships with multilateral institutions, development partners, and the private sector to identify and fund projects that will create meaningful impact.
Maimbo further emphasized his commitment to inclusive leadership, focusing on harnessing the best of each AfDB member and fostering collective solutions to Africa’s challenges.
The AfDB presidential election is scheduled for May 29, 2025, during the Bank’s Board of Governors meeting, which will include representatives from 54 African countries and 27 non-African shareholder countries.
Maimbo faces competition from four other candidates representing various African nations.
During his time in Paris, Maimbo was accompanied by Chrissy Hilweele, Chargé d’Affaires at the Zambian Embassy, and other embassy staff.
WARNING! All rights reserved. This material, and other digital content on this website, may not be reproduced, published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed in whole or in part without prior express permission from ZAMBIA MONITOR.
Comments