By Dominique Mabika.
During a visit to Dakar, Samuel Munzele Maimbo, one of five candidates vying for the presidency of the African Development Bank (AfDB), spoke with Financial Afrik on March 19, 2025. He discussed his reasons for visiting Senegal, his relationship with fellow candidate and “brother” Amadou Hott, and his vision for the future.
With the election about two months away, the SADC candidate gave an exclusive interview, sharing his motivations and detailing his program. He expressed his initial actions if elected would include ensuring the AfDB represents the continent appropriately, establishing a youth council, and a private sector council. His priorities include the private sector, infrastructure, and energy.
Samuel Munzele Maimbo plans to restore the role of Chief Economist with a focus on African knowledge. Another significant focus for him is for the AfDB to actively participate in climate finance and lead African public debt negotiations with the Paris Club. With a career in development finance and a doctorate in public administration specializing in banking, Maimbo views his candidacy as a battle of ideas.
Who is Dr. Samuel Munzele Maimbo?
Maimbo appreciates the culture and hospitality of Dakar, where he has frequently worked and lived across Africa. His career spanning over 50 years in development banking includes significant roles at the World Bank. His candidacy stems from a passion for advancing Africa, underscored by the youthful population and rich resources of the continent.
Motivation for Presidency
Maimbo’s primary motivation is to apply his extensive skills in development finance to concentrate fully on Africa’s progress. He emphasizes the need for substantial annual funding for Africa, approximately $400 billion, to support growth and development across traditional and creative sectors.
Preparation through Previous Experience
His extensive experience, including key positions at the World Bank, equips him for the AfDB presidency, focusing on clear objectives, problem-solving, partnership, and investing in people. These elements are crucial for running the AfDB effectively.
Main Aspects of His Program for the AfDB
Maimbo’s program aims for growth across sectors, tackling hard questions in agriculture, trade, and infrastructure. He is excited about initiatives like the African Continental Free Trade Area and advocates for rapid action on tariff reductions.
Proposed Innovations and Changes at the Bank
Maimbo intends to start with representation, making sure the AfDB’s leadership mirrors the continent. He plans to establish advisory councils for youth and the private sector and enhance the bank’s collaboration with international partners and focus on talent development.
Influence on Africa’s Economic and Social Development
Maimbo has engaged with various stakeholders, emphasizing transparency and local development. He believes in working directly within communities to ensure the AfDB’s operations are integrated and beneficial at the grassroots level.
Handling Regional Support Variance
As the official SADC candidate, Maimbo understands the competitive nature of the election and focuses on presenting a vision that offers substantial impact and progress for Africa in the shortest possible time.
Strategies for Unifying SADC Members
Maimbo’s strategy is to unify the continent around selecting the best candidate by aligning his vision with the current needs of Africa, ensuring active engagement with all stakeholders across the continent.
Purpose of Visit to Senegal
Respect for Senegal’s significant role in regional development, acknowledgment of his competitor Amadou Hott, and a personal enjoyment of Senegalese culture and arts are his reasons for visiting. Maimbo uses his trips to engage culturally and discuss developmental strategies.
Closing Message Pre-Election
Maimbo emphasizes his lifelong values of honesty, transparency, and hard work, committing to support African governments in development financing and breaking the cycle of debt and dependency for sustainable growth and prosperity.
