Mogadishu, Somalia (SONNA) – The African Union Commission and the Federal Republic of Somalia have both extended their heartfelt congratulations to Dr. Sidi Ould Tah on his election as the ninth President of the African Development Bank (AfDB) Group. This significant appointment comes at a crucial time for the continent’s economic trajectory.
H.E. Mahamoud Ali Youssouf, Chairperson of the African Union Commission, warmly welcomed Dr. Tah’s election, describing it as a testament to his exceptional leadership and unwavering commitment to advancing Africa’s development agenda. The Chairperson highlighted Dr. Tah’s extensive experience, particularly his tenure as Director General of the Arab Bank for Economic Development in Africa (BADEA), which positions him well to guide the AfDB through Africa’s journey towards economic transformation, resilience, and sustainable growth.
Chairperson Youssouf underscored the AfDB’s pivotal role in achieving Agenda 2063, promoting regional integration, fostering infrastructure development, and ensuring inclusive prosperity. He expressed anticipation for strengthened collaboration under Dr. Tah’s leadership, especially on flagship initiatives such as the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA), the Programme for Infrastructure Development in Africa (PIDA), and the Africa Vaccine Manufacturing Initiative. Reaffirming the AU’s full support, Youssouf voiced confidence in Dr. Tah’s ability to tackle pressing challenges from debt sustainability to climate resilience. The Chairperson also paid tribute to the outgoing President, Dr. Akinwumi Adesina, acknowledging his exemplary leadership and achievements.
Concurrently, H.E. Abdisalam Abdi Ali, Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation of the Federal Republic of Somalia, issued a statement extending Somalia’s profound congratulations to Dr. Tah. Minister Ali noted that Dr. Tah’s election reflects his steadfast dedication to advancing Africa’s economic and social progress.
Somalia, in its statement, recognized the critical role the AfDB will play under Dr. Tah’s leadership in guiding the continent towards resilience, innovation, and sustainable development. The Federal Republic of Somalia particularly emphasized transformative initiatives aligned with Africa’s Agenda 2063, aimed at promoting inclusive and equitable prosperity among member states. Somalia looks forward to enhancing cooperation on key continental priorities, including the AfCFTA, infrastructure development, and climate change adaptation programs, all of which are deemed essential for Africa’s shared vision of growth and integration.
