By Emmanuel Sikena
Abidjan, Ivory Coast – Sidi Ould Tah, a Mauritanian economist with a proven track record of transformative leadership, has been elected as the new president of the African Development Bank (AfDB). The 60-year-old is the first Mauritanian to hold the prestigious position and takes the helm at a critical juncture for the continent’s development.
Ould Tah, a relatively late entrant to the race, secured the presidency after a whirlwind campaign that highlighted his decade-long tenure as head of the Arab Bank for Economic Development in Africa (BADEA). During his time at BADEA, he claims to have significantly elevated the institution, transforming it from a relatively unknown entity to a highly-rated development organization in Africa.
“I have demonstrated my transformative leadership style that has elevated the bank to the level of a leading player in the African development landscape,” he stated in his application to the AfDB, pointing to his accomplishments as evidence of his capabilities.
Known for his discreet demeanor and measured approach to communication, Ould Tah’s leadership style will provide a marked contrast to that of his predecessor, Nigeria’s Akinwumi Adesina.
His vision for the AfDB centers around four key pillars: strengthening regional financial institutions, asserting Africa’s financial independence in global markets, leveraging demographic dynamics as a development tool, and building resilient infrastructure to mitigate the impacts of climate change. His supporters believe he can replicate his successes at BADEA on a much larger scale at the AfDB, which boasts a substantial $318 billion in capital.
“The AfDB has to abandon traditional bureaucratic models for a more fluid approach based on results,” Ould Tah stated, signaling his intention to streamline operations and prioritize effectiveness.
Drawing on his experience as Mauritania’s Economy Minister from 2008 to 2015, Ould Tah is advocating for a “break with the approaches of the past,” recognizing the evolving challenges and opportunities facing Africa in the global landscape.
Fluent in French, English, Arabic, and Wolof, Ould Tah possesses a linguistic dexterity that will undoubtedly aid him in fostering collaboration across the diverse African continent. He skillfully garnered support from a wide range of countries, from Sahel nations to France, showcasing his diplomatic prowess. His impressive score of over 72 percent among African voters solidifies his continental legitimacy.
While facing potential headwinds, including a previously announced pledge from the Trump administration to suspend $500 million in aid to the AfDB, Ould Tah remains optimistic, suggesting that financial backing from other sources, such as Gulf countries, could compensate for any shortfall.
Regarding environmental sustainability, Ould Tah intends to leverage Africa’s natural resources to facilitate a “viable energy transition, reconciling economic and environmental imperatives.” He emphasizes that while Africa contributes minimally to global CO2 emissions, it disproportionately suffers the consequences of climate change.
“It is therefore imperative to integrate sustainable practices and to harness renewable energy in development projects,” he asserts.
Ould Tah holds a master’s degree in economics from the University of Nouakchott in Mauritania and a doctorate from the University of Nice in France, equipping him with a strong academic foundation to tackle the challenges ahead. With a clear vision and a proven track record, Sidi Ould Tah is poised to lead the AfDB into a new era of impactful development financing for the African continent.
