Abidjan, Côte d’Ivoire — September 1, 2025 — The President of the Afro-Arab Group, Ambassador Alhaji Salamu Amadu, has congratulated Dr. Sidi Ould Tal on the occasion of his official inauguration as the new President of the African Development Bank (AfDB). The historic ceremony took place at the prestigious Sofitel Hotel in Abidjan, where African leaders, development partners, and financial experts gathered to witness the transition of leadership at one of the continent’s most important financial institutions.
Ambassador Amadu, a respected business leader and philanthropist, described Dr. Tal’s inauguration as a defining moment for Africa’s economic future. In his congratulatory message, he praised the Mauritanian economist’s vast experience and strong record of service to the continent.
“With Dr. Sidi Ould Tal as President, the African Development Bank will continue to grow and strengthen its role as the backbone of Africa’s economic transformation,” Ambassador Amadu said. “His remarkable track record, particularly his leadership at the Arab Bank for Economic Development in Africa (BADEA), speaks volumes of his dedication and competence in driving sustainable development across the continent.”
Election Victory and Inauguration
Dr. Tal was elected earlier this year by AfDB member states in a competitive race that attracted some of Africa’s most distinguished financial leaders. His inauguration in Abidjan marks the official start of his tenure, a role that places him at the helm of Africa’s premier development finance institution.
Among the strong candidates he contested against were:
- Bajabulile Swazi Tshabalala of South Africa, the only female candidate, who has held senior roles at the AfDB.
- Samuel Maimbo of Zambia, Vice President at the World Bank.
- Amadou Hott, former Minister of Economy of Senegal.
- Mahamat Abbas Tolli of Chad, former Governor of the Bank of Central African States.
Ambassador Amadu noted that Dr. Tal’s election victory over such an impressive lineup underscored the confidence of African nations in his leadership and vision.
A Track Record of Excellence
Before his election, Dr. Tal served as President of BADEA (the Arab Bank for Economic Development in Africa), where he transformed the institution into one of the continent’s most highly rated development banks. Under his leadership, BADEA achieved a AAA credit rating and significantly expanded its portfolio of investments across African economies.
His nearly four decades of experience in international finance, economic policy, and institution building position him to guide the AfDB at a critical time. The Bank’s mandate to finance infrastructure, promote industrialization, and support inclusive growth is seen as pivotal for Africa’s long-term development.
Ambassador Amadu emphasized that Africa’s growing youth population, rapid urbanization, and urgent need for sustainable infrastructure require innovative financial solutions — areas where Dr. Tal has demonstrated expertise.
Ambassador Alhaji Salamu Amadu’s Confidence in AfDB’s Future
In his message, Ambassador Amadu stressed that the AfDB is more than just a financial institution; it is the heartbeat of Africa’s economic aspirations. He said Dr. Tal’s inauguration represents a fresh opportunity to align the Bank’s resources with the continent’s most pressing needs.
“His election is not only a victory for Africa but also a reassurance that the continent’s future is in capable hands,” Ambassador Amadu remarked. “The AfDB under Dr. Tal will champion inclusive growth, entrepreneurship, and the empowerment of African youth.”
Ambassador Alhaji Salamu Amadu, through his Afro-Arab Group initiatives, has long advocated for entrepreneurship, affordable housing, and youth empowerment in Ghana and beyond. He stated that these priorities align closely with AfDB’s mission to deliver transformative projects that impact millions of lives.
Significance of the Inauguration
The inauguration ceremony at the Sofitel Hotel attracted representatives from across Africa and the international community. The event symbolized not just a change in leadership but also a reaffirmation of the AfDB’s role as a cornerstone of Africa’s economic development.
Observers at the ceremony highlighted Dr. Tal’s inclusive leadership style and commitment to working closely with both African governments and global partners. His presidency is expected to focus on scaling up investment in renewable energy, transportation, agriculture, and digital transformation — key sectors that will shape Africa’s competitiveness in the global economy.
Reactions Across the Continent
Stakeholders across Africa have welcomed Dr. Tal’s inauguration with optimism. Political leaders, economists, and private sector players have expressed hope that his presidency will accelerate progress toward Agenda 2063, the African Union’s blueprint for sustainable development.
Many have pointed to his reputation as a bridge-builder between Africa and the Arab world, noting that his leadership could deepen partnerships and attract more funding to the continent.
Looking Ahead
As Dr. Sidi Ould Tal begins his presidency, expectations are high. The AfDB is under pressure to respond to Africa’s urgent needs: addressing infrastructure gaps, expanding access to finance for small businesses, and mitigating the effects of climate change.
Ambassador Alhaji Salamu Amadu concluded his congratulatory message with a note of optimism, reaffirming his belief that under Dr. Tal’s leadership, the Bank will continue to be a driving force for Africa’s prosperity.
“With his vast experience and proven commitment, I am confident that Dr. Tal will lead the AfDB into a new era of excellence, innovation, and impact for all Africans,” Amadu said.
Conclusion
Dr. Sidi Ould Tal’s inauguration at the Sofitel Hotel in Abidjan is more than a ceremonial milestone. It is a turning point for the African Development Bank and, by extension, for Africa itself. With the endorsement of African nations, the confidence of business leaders like Ambassador Alhaji Salamu Amadu, and a strong track record in development finance, Dr. Tal is stepping into office at a moment when the continent’s future hangs on visionary leadership and decisive action.
