The African Development Bank (AfDB) is pleased to announce the election of Dr. Sidi Ould Tah of Mauritania as its new President, following a vote by the Bank’s Board of Governors during the Annual Meetings held in Abidjan. Dr. Ould Tah will officially assume office on September 1, 2025, succeeding Dr. Akinwumi Adesina, who will conclude a decade of transformative leadership.
Dr. Ould Tah becomes the first Mauritanian to lead Africa’s premier development finance institution. His election reflects a strong mandate from African nations and the international community to steer the AfDB through a period of mounting economic challenges and historic opportunity.
Currently the Director General of the Arab Bank for Economic Development in Africa (BADEA), Dr. Ould Tah brings over 30 years of experience in finance, development policy, and international cooperation. He has previously served as Mauritania’s Minister of Economic Affairs and Development, where he was credited with initiating structural reforms and expanding bilateral partnerships.
Dr. Akinwumi Adesina, who served two terms as AfDB President from 2015 to 2025, leaves a lasting legacy of visionary leadership. Under his stewardship, the Bank tripled its capital base, expanded development programs, and launched the High 5s—strategic priorities that include powering, feeding, industrializing, and integrating Africa, while improving the quality of life for all Africans.
Dr. Adesina also led the Bank’s response to critical challenges, including the COVID-19 pandemic and the global debt crisis, mobilizing billions in funding and launching innovative financing mechanisms.
As he prepares to take office, Dr. Ould Tah emphasized his commitment to strengthening the AfDB’s role in driving inclusive and sustainable development across Africa.
“I am deeply honored to be entrusted with this responsibility,” said Dr. Ould Tah. “Together, we will build on the foundation laid by President Adesina, deepening regional integration, tackling climate and food insecurity, and unlocking Africa’s economic potential for future generations.”
Dr. Ould Tah takes the helm as Africa faces rising debt pressures, climate volatility, and a growing financing gap estimated at over $400 billion annually. His priorities will include expanding access to concessional financing, reinforcing financial stability through the proposed African Financial Stability Mechanism, and strengthening collaboration with global development partners.