By Jane Chanda
Minister of Finance and National Planning, Dr Situmbeko Musokotwane, says Zambia is backing Dr. Samuel Munzele Maimbo, a seasoned World Bank vice president, for the presidency of the African Development Bank (AfDB) in 2025
Speaking at the Annual Meetings of the IMF and the World Bank Group in Washington DC, USA, Dr Musokotwane said, “Dr. Maimbo is exceptional at resource mobilisation, and his leadership at the helm of Africa’s premier financial institution would greatly help the continent.”
DR Musokotwane highlighted Dr. Maimbo’s impressive track record at the World Bank, where he rose through the ranks to become vice president.
“He has enjoyed the support of the management here at the bank and has been involved in mobilising resources, which is critical for the AfDB’s mission,” Musokotwane said.
Dr Musokotwane Southern African Development Community (SADC) has endorsed Dr. Maimbo as its official candidate, and Musokotwane expressed gratitude for the regional bloc’s support. “We’re not just happy because he’s Zambian; we’re happy because he’s a very qualified and competent Zambian,” Dr Musokotwane stressed.
Dr. Maimbo’s expertise in resource mobilisation is seen as a significant asset for the AfDB, which aims to drive economic growth and development in Africa, Dr Musokotwane said, stressing that he believed Dr. Maimbo’s experience would enable him to effectively lead the AfDB in securing vital finances for African countries.
The decision on the AfDB presidency is expected in May next year.