Sidi Ould Tah, a seasoned economist and former Finance Minister of Mauritania has been elected as President of the continent’s premier multilateral development bank by the Board of Governors, which consists of ministers of finance from 81 member states.
His five-year term begins on September 1, 2025, succeeding Nigerian Dr. Akinwumi Adesina, who held the African Development Bank’s top position for two consecutive terms starting in 2015.
Mr. Tah has been instrumental in driving economic development across Africa, most notably in his role as President of the Arab Bank for Economic Development in Africa (BADEA).
Under his leadership, BADEA has made significant contributions to various African nations, including Liberia. The Ministry of Finance of Liberia expressed its enthusiasm for Mr. Tah’s election, citing the fruitful collaboration in infrastructure projects that have taken place under his stewardship.
“We extend our heartfelt congratulations to Mr. Tah on his election as President of the AfDB. His commitment to advancing economic development, particularly through critical infrastructure projects, aligns perfectly with our national priorities,” the Ministry of Finance stated in a statement Thursday.
“We look forward to enhanced partnerships that will be mutually beneficial between the AfDB and Liberia during his tenure.”
One of the highlights of Mr. Tah’s contributions to Liberia was the financing of the Roberts International Airport (RIA) runway refurbishment project in 2016.
His involvement in the Gbarnga-Salayea leg of the Gbarnga-Mendikorma highway project further underscores his commitment to improving Liberia’s infrastructure.
During recent discussions in Washington DC, surrounding the IMF/World Bank Spring Meeting in April 2025, Mr. Tah played a pivotal role as a part of the Arab Coordination Group. This coalition, which includes the Kuwaiti Fund and the Saudi Fund, pledged financial support for the Salayea-Voinjama leg of the Gbarnga-Mendikorma Highway, a project that is expected to bolster economic development in the region.
In addition to celebrating his election, the Liberian government offered congratulations to the other four candidates who vied for the presidency of the AfDB, acknowledging their passion for the continent’s development.
