AfDB 2025 Meetings Focus on Harnessing Africa’s Capital Amid Global Challenges

The bank aims to formulate actionable strategies to accelerate development across the continent, relying on its diverse pool of capital.

The African Development Bank (AfDB) is gearing up for its 2025 Annual Meetings, scheduled to take place from May 26th to 30th at the Sofitel Abidjan Hotel Ivoire in Abidjan, Côte d'Ivoire. With global and regional challenges in focus, the meeting will provide an in-depth examination of how Africa can better harness its abundant resources to address pressing issues, including debt burdens, climate change, and rising tariffs amidst a complex geopolitical landscape. The bank aims to formulate actionable strategies to accelerate development across the continent, relying on its diverse pool of capital.

During a press briefing held this week, key figures from the institution discussed the major themes and objectives of the upcoming meetings. Prof. Vincent Nmehielle, the Secretary General of the AfDB Group, and Prof. Kevin Urama, the Chief Economist and Vice President for Economic Governance, outlined the direction the bank will take in its effort to better manage Africa’s wealth for development.

The AfDB's Annual Meetings will include multiple high-level events featuring heads of state, ministers, civil society leaders, experts, and the bank’s development partners. A notable highlight will be the election of the bank’s next president, who will replace Dr. Akinwumi Adesina after his decade-long term ends. The new president will be selected from a pool of five candidates, each representing different African countries. A unique voting system will be used, requiring a double majority of both the shareholders and regional member countries. The newly elected president will take office on September 1st, 2025.

Strengthening Africa’s Financial and Human Capital

The 2025 Annual Meetings will revolve around the theme "Making the Most of Africa’s Capital to Foster Its Development." The emphasis will be on leveraging Africa’s existing resources—fiscal, human, business, and natural capital—to accelerate economic growth and development. Prof. Urama pointed out that Africa must focus on improving internal mechanisms and tapping into the continent’s wealth to address its needs, rather than relying on external sources such as foreign aid.

In addition to political leadership, the meetings will feature in-depth discussions on critical economic issues that affect the continent. These include Africa’s debt challenges, strategies for mobilizing resources, and how to build more robust institutions capable of driving growth. The AfDB’s African Economic Outlook report, which will be released during the meetings, will provide insights into Africa’s evolving economic landscape and propose solutions to combat debt burdens and facilitate sustainable development.

Addressing Global Economic Pressures

One of the most pressing issues that will be addressed is Africa’s engagement with global economic forces, particularly trade tariffs and geopolitical dynamics. The bank is particularly focused on the implications of rising trade tariffs, especially in light of the ongoing trade wars, including those involving the United States. Prof. Urama stated that these tariffs have significant impacts on African economies, yet the extent of the damage also depends on the ways in which African nations respond to external pressures through strategic domestic policies. The bank’s discussions will delve into how African nations can shield themselves from the negative effects of tariffs and trade disruptions while optimizing the use of their resources.

Both leaders emphasized the importance of intra-Africa trade and regional integration as key strategies for reducing dependency on external actors. Prof. Nmehielle stressed that Africa should look inward and focus on utilizing its own capital and resources, stating, “Africa’s capital should work for Africa.” This sentiment aligns with the broader goal of fostering a continent-wide mindset shift, where local resources—whether financial, natural, or human—are harnessed for the collective good.

The Need for a Positive Narrative on Africa

At the heart of the discussions will be the need to reshape the narrative surrounding Africa's development. Both Prof. Nmehielle and Prof. Urama urged journalists to report on Africa’s progress and opportunities in a way that highlights the continent’s potential. According to Prof. Urama, “Africa has enough… let’s not bemoan the decline in aid… let’s focus our narrative on what Africa can do.”

They both emphasized that the media plays a crucial role in shaping public perception and influencing policymaking. By focusing on solutions and the positive strides Africa is making in areas such as infrastructure development, entrepreneurship, and renewable energy, journalists can help drive forward the continent’s economic agenda.

Furthermore, Prof. Nmehielle reminded journalists of their responsibility to hold institutions accountable and expose inefficiencies when necessary. He called on the media to be an active participant in the dialogue surrounding African development and governance, ensuring that transparency and accountability remain at the forefront.

The “Africa Premium” Debate

Another issue that will be high on the agenda is the so-called “Africa Premium,” which refers to the higher interest rates that African countries often face when accessing international capital markets. Despite Africa’s relatively low default rates compared to other regions, the perception of risk associated with African nations continues to drive up borrowing costs. AfDB President Dr. Adesina has repeatedly called for an end to this unfair pricing, arguing that it hampers the continent’s growth potential. During the Annual Meetings, solutions will be proposed to address this disparity and make it easier for African countries to secure funding at more favorable rates.

Conclusion: A Turning Point for Africa’s Development

As the 2025 African Development Bank Annual Meetings approach, the institution is preparing for a transformative period in Africa’s development journey. By addressing key issues such as debt management, trade tariffs, and resource mobilization, the bank seeks to empower African nations to take full control of their economic futures. With a clear focus on harnessing internal resources and fostering a positive narrative around the continent’s development, the meetings will play a pivotal role in shaping the future of African economies. The selection of the new president, the introduction of innovative economic strategies, and the strengthening of Africa’s narrative on the global stage will all serve as key steps in unlocking the continent’s vast potential.