The race for the African Development Bank’s top job is officially on, and it’s shaping up to be an economic version of the AFCON finals—only this time, the prize isn’t a trophy but the leadership of Africa’s premier financial institution.
After a thorough screening process, the Steering Committee of the Board of Governors has shortlisted five candidates from across the continent to battle it out for the presidency of the bank. The big decision will be made on May 29, 2025, in what promises to be a high-stakes contest for the future of Africa’s development agenda.
1. Mr. Amadou Hott – Senegal
Born on October 25, 1972, Amadou Hott is a seasoned economist and investment banker with over 25 years of experience in economic policy, development finance, and investment banking. He has held significant roles, including serving as Senegal’s Minister of Economy, Planning, and International Cooperation from April 2019 to September 2022. Prior to this, he was the Vice President for Power, Energy, Green Growth, and Climate Change at the African Development Bank from 2016 to 2019. Hott’s career also encompasses positions in international finance institutions and advisory roles in infrastructure development across Africa.
2. Dr. Samuel Munzele Maimbo – Zambia
Dr. Maimbo is a distinguished financial expert with a robust background in banking and public administration. He currently serves as the Chief of Staff in the Office of the President at the World Bank. His previous roles include Bank Inspector at the Bank of Zambia and Auditor at PricewaterhouseCoopers. Dr. Maimbo holds a Ph.D. in Public Administration (Banking) from the University of Manchester, an MBA in Finance from the University of Nottingham, and a BSc in Accounting from Copperbelt University, Zambia. He is also a Fellow of the Association of Chartered Certified Accountants (FCCA, UK).
3. Mr. Sidi Ould Tah – Mauritania
Mr. Sidi Ould Tah has been at the helm of the Arab Bank for Economic Development in Africa (BADEA) as President and Director General since July 1, 2015. Before this, he served as Mauritania’s Minister of Economics and Development. His extensive experience in economic development and finance has been pivotal in fostering economic ties between Arab and African nations.
4. Mr. Abbas Mahamat Tolli – Chad
Abbas Mahamat Tolli is a seasoned economist and banker from Chad. He has held prominent positions, including serving as the Governor of the Bank of Central African States (BEAC) since 2017. Prior to this role, he was the Prime Minister of Chad from 2008 to 2010 and has also served as the country’s Minister of Finance. His extensive experience in monetary policy and economic governance has been instrumental in shaping the financial landscape of the Central African region.
5. Ms. Bajabulile Swazi Tshabalala – South Africa
Ms. Tshabalala has been serving as the Senior Vice President of the African Development Bank Group since her appointment in March 2020. Prior to this, she was the Vice President of Finance and Chief Financial Officer of the Bank since August 2018. A South African national, she brings a wealth of experience from her tenure in various financial and executive roles, contributing significantly to the Bank’s financial strategies and operations.
The election of the new President of the African Development Bank is a pivotal event, as the chosen leader will steer the institution’s strategic direction and initiatives across the continent.
