May 29, 2025 | Addis Insight

In a significant leadership shift for Africa’s premier financial institution, Dr. Sidy Mohamed Tah, the current Minister of Finance of Mauritania, has officially been elected as the new President of the African Development Bank (AfDB). The announcement was made today following a vote by the Bank’s Board of Governors, composed of 81 regional and non-regional member states.

Dr. Tah will assume office in September 2025 for a five-year term, succeeding the outgoing Nigerian president, Dr. Akinwumi Adesina, whose tenure has been widely regarded as transformative. Dr. Tah’s election marks a pivotal moment for the AfDB, as it navigates an increasingly complex global financial landscape while deepening its commitment to Africa’s economic transformation.

A Seasoned Financial Reformer

Dr. Sidy Tah brings decades of experience in both national and multilateral financial systems. Before his role as Mauritania’s Finance Minister, he served as the Director General for Economic Development in Africa at the Arab Bank for Economic Development in Africa (BADEA). His work there involved designing and overseeing large-scale development finance strategies across the continent—skills that are expected to translate well into his new mandate at the AfDB.

His appointment has been met with widespread endorsement, not only for his technical expertise but also for his diplomatic acumen in navigating the diverse political and economic interests that shape African development agendas.

Endorsements and Regional Support

The Chairperson of the African Union Commission, Moussa Faki Mahamat, extended warm congratulations to Dr. Tah, noting that his leadership will be instrumental in realizing the ambitions of Agenda 2063—Africa’s strategic framework for inclusive and sustainable development. Faki emphasized that the AfDB plays a central role in Africa’s economic transformation, and that strong, visionary leadership at the Bank will be crucial for achieving that mission.

Dr. Tah’s unanimous election is seen as a reflection of confidence from both African and international shareholders in his ability to maintain stability while driving innovation and bold development finance reforms.

Taking the Helm at a Critical Time

Dr. Tah assumes the presidency at a time when the African continent is facing multiple concurrent challenges—from climate shocks and conflict-driven displacement to youth unemployment and limited access to infrastructure financing. As the African Development Bank continues its work to fund transformative projects in energy, agriculture, transport, and digital connectivity, Dr. Tah’s leadership will be closely watched by governments, investors, and civil society alike.

Observers note that one of his major tasks will be strengthening the Bank’s ability to attract private investment while ensuring that development financing remains inclusive and equitable. The AfDB’s role in climate finance, green infrastructure, and post-COVID recovery will also be among his top priorities.

Continuity and a New Vision

Dr. Tah’s presidency is expected to build on the foundation laid by Dr. Akinwumi Adesina, who championed initiatives such as the “High 5s” development priorities and significantly increased the Bank’s capital base. However, Dr. Tah is likely to bring his own vision—one potentially more focused on regional economic integration, North-South financial partnerships, and enhanced resilience for fragile states.

With mounting calls for reforming global financial systems to better serve the Global South, his leadership may also influence Africa’s positioning in international economic negotiations.

About the African Development Bank
Founded in 1964 and headquartered in Abidjan, Côte d’Ivoire, the African Development Bank is a key driver of economic progress on the continent. It funds infrastructure, social programs, and policy initiatives in its 54 African member countries and works closely with non-regional partners to mobilize resources for Africa’s sustainable growth.

Dr. Sidy Mohamed Tah’s term begins officially in September 2025 and will run until 2030.

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