AfDB Sees 242% Capital Growth as Adesina’s Tenure Ends
The African Development Bank (AfDB) has experienced a remarkable surge in capital growth, expanding by 241.9% over the past decade, as the institution prepares for a leadership transition this week.
The Bank’s capital has soared from $93 billion in 2015 to $318 billion in 2025, marking the most significant financial expansion in its history.
During a breakfast meeting with journalists on Monday, President of the African Development Bank Group, Dr. Akinwumi Adesina, reflected on the institution’s achievements over the past decade.
He highlighted the successful replenishment of the African Development Fund, which raised $8.9 billion, and underscored the substantial impact the Bank has had, benefiting half a billion Africans through its investments over the last 10 years.
Describing his tenure as both demanding and profoundly rewarding, Adesina emphasized the dedication required to lead an institution of such magnitude and influence.
He remarked that his presidency was not merely a job but a mission, recounting the immense personal commitment he made throughout his decade-long leadership.
“This is not a job. If anyone is looking for a job, please don’t take it. This is not a job. This is a mission,” he stated.
He continued by sharing how the demands of the role left him little time for anything else, saying, “As my wife Grace and staff would tell you, for 10 years I have had no life. Completely zero. I worked every single day. Every single step.”
The press briefing marked the inaugural event of the Bank’s 2025 Annual Meetings, taking place in Abidjan, Côte d’Ivoire, from May 26 to May 30, where a new president will be elected to lead the institution.
Five candidates are vying to succeed Adesina: Ms. Swazi Tshabalala from South Africa, Mr. Hott Amadou from Senegal, Dr. Samuel Munzele Maimbo from Zambia, Dr. Sidi Tah Ould from Mauritania, and Mr. Abbas Mahamat Tolli from Chad.
The Annual Meetings are expected to be the largest ever hosted by the AfDB, attracting an estimated 6,000 delegates from 91 countries.
Attendees will include policymakers, private sector leaders, academics, civil society representatives, development partners, and members of the media. The event will provide a crucial platform for discussions on Africa’s economic future and sustainable development strategies.
As Adesina prepares to relinquish the leadership reins on September 1, 2025, he reassured stakeholders that while leadership may change, the institution’s core mission remains steadfast.
“Leadership may change, but the mission remains. The Bank’s direction is clear, its resolve strong, and its commitment to Africa’s development unshakable,” he affirmed.
What you should know: The successor to Nigeria’s Akinwumi Adesina will be decided on May 29, 2025, at the bank’s headquarters in Abidjan, Côte d’Ivoire. These individuals represent a diverse cross-section of Africa’s financial, economic, and development expertise.
The new president will be tasked with driving financial inclusion, economic development, and sustainable investments across Africa.
