By 
Stakeholders have continued to drum up support for Samuel Munzele Maimbo, a Zambian, as he contests for the African Development Bank’s (AfDB) presidency.
Maimbo is currently vice president at the World Bank.
In May 2025, AfDB will elect its new president, a decision that would have profound implications for Africa’s economic trajectory.
Bernard Tawiah, an Assistant Professor of Finance at the University of Cape Coast Ghana, is the latest to endorse Dr Maimbo as the best candidate for the AfDB presidency.
Tawiah highlighted that Maimbo’s candidacy was built on an impressive track record at the World Bank and a clear vision for Africa.
“With Dr Maimbo at the helm, the AfDB can become the driving force behind a prosperous, resilient, and inclusive Africa. His presidency would not only elevate the Bank’s impact but also solidify Africa’s role as a critical player in the global economic landscape.
Read more: SADC insists Zambia’s Maimbo validly nominated as region’s sole candidate for AfDB presidency
“For Dr Maimbo, the time for endless discussion about Africa’s potential is over— Africa needs action, and it needs it now. In Dr Maimbo, Africa finds not just a candidate but a champion—a leader who truly represents the hope of the continent,” he said in his write up on Why Dr Maimbo is the right choice.
Tawiah noted that Africa’s economic growth had slowed significantly in recent years, with projections indicating a decline from 3.6 percent in 2022 to 3.1 percent in 2023.
Despite economic growth in the aggregate, he pointed out, the average African was getting poor and economic inequality continues to increase.
“This stagnation stems from global economic uncertainties, underperforming large economies like Nigeria and South Africa, and persistent high inflation. Dr Maimbo’s economic transformation strategy addresses these concerns with precision, emphasising targeted investments in sectors that generate jobs at pace and scale.
“His platform prioritises public financial management, infrastructure development, and value-added industries, creating the foundation for long-term, inclusive growth. Energy remains at the heart of this transformation. Only 50 percent of Africa’s 1.37 billion people have access to electricity,” Tawiah said.
He also highlighted that Maimbo’s commitment to efficiency and impact centered on strengthening AfDB’s internal governance, productivity, and financial capacity.
He added that Maimbo’s advocated for reconstructing teams in high-priority areas, incorporating data analytics and streamlining operations to deliver better outcomes for member states.
“This efficiency focus underpins his ability to drive transformative investments in energy and infrastructure, which are critical for revitalizing Africa’s economic growth. By leveraging his expertise in strategic planning and resource mobilisation, Dr Maimbo aims to unlock the AfDB’s full potential,” Tawiah said.
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