Swazi Tshabalala, former AfDB Senior Vice President, is running for president to focus on infrastructure and private sector roles. She is the only female candidate among five competitors ahead of the May 29 election, backed by South Africa’s Finance Minister. Tshabalala aims to steer the AfDB toward strategic action, reinforcing the continent’s economic ambitions and investment opportunities.
Swazi Tshabalala, former Senior Vice President of the African Development Bank (AfDB), has announced her candidacy for the bank’s presidency, aiming to prioritize infrastructure development and enhance the private sector’s role in Africa. Tshabalala is the sole female contender among five candidates, including Samuel Maimbo from Zambia and Amadou Hott from Senegal, competing to lead the institution rated triple AAA by major rating agencies.
Endorsed by South Africa’s Finance Minister, Enoch Godongwana, Tshabalala has been recognized for her roles in finance, infrastructure, and economic development. Her experience at the AfDB since 2018, along with prior leadership positions, positions her as a strong candidate to steer the bank towards greater financial resilience under upcoming challenges.
The AfDB, Africa’s main financial institution, will appoint a new president on May 29 to succeed Akinwumi Adesina, who has completed a decade of service. Adesina’s presidency focused on agriculture investment in Africa, recently launching an $8 billion initiative to extend electricity access to 300 million Africans.
Tshabalala noted the continent’s urgent need for strategic action as it seeks to fulfill its economic ambitions. She envisions a results-oriented AfDB that prioritizes infrastructure investment, innovative financing options, and stronger partnerships to fully realize Africa’s economic potential.
To be elected as the AfDB president, a candidate needs majority support from both African shareholders, who hold 60% ownership, as well as the non-regional members representing the remaining shareholding.
Swazi Tshabalala has declared her intention to run for the presidency of the African Development Bank, emphasizing infrastructure and private sector growth in Africa. Supported by key figures, her candidacy marks an important moment as the bank approaches a new leadership era after Adesina. Winning will require a majority from both African and non-African shareholders.
Original Source: www.cnbcafrica.com
