Development finance expert Dr Samuel Maimbo has officially announced his candidacy for President of the African Development Bank (AfDB), unveiling a transformative vision to drive Africa’s economic growth.

Speaking on Friday, 31st January 2025, Dr Maimbo emphasised the urgent need for bold leadership to unlock the continent’s full potential.

He stated that Africa must prioritise job creation and industrial development to secure long-term prosperity.

With a distinguished 30-year career marked by record-breaking fundraising, innovative policy implementation, and institutional efficiency, Dr Maimbo presents himself as a leader ready to deliver real-world impact.

His campaign focuses on moving Africa towards middle-income status by ensuring the AfDB operates with increased pace, scale, and effectiveness.

“Africa needs significantly higher rates of growth to successfully navigate today’s development challenges and capture tomorrow’s opportunities,” he asserted.

Dr Maimbo’s policy agenda highlights key economic sectors that will accelerate the continent’s transformation.

His priorities include boosting intra-African trade through the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA), strengthening financial markets, and investing in agricultural transformation.

He also underscored the importance of infrastructure development, sustainable energy access, and climate resilience to ensure long-term growth.

In addition to economic policies, Dr Maimbo is committed to promoting Africa’s creative industries and ensuring inclusivity in development strategies.

He stressed that young people, women, and underserved communities must have a voice in shaping policies that impact their future.

“It’s time to stop talking about Africa’s potential and start realising it,” he declared, calling for action-oriented leadership at the AfDB.

As the race for AfDB’s top position unfolds, Dr Maimbo’s vision of results-driven leadership positions him as a formidable contender.

With a strong focus on economic transformation and institutional effectiveness, his candidacy signals a bold new direction for Africa’s premier financial institution.