The African Development Bank (AfDB) proudly celebrates its Diamond Jubilee, marking 60 years of driving social and economic transformation across the African continent. The Southern African regional celebration, held in Johannesburg, brought together leaders, stakeholders, and partners to reflect on the institution’s remarkable journey and its vision for a prosperous future.
Speaking at the event, Ms Leila Farah Mokaddem, Director General of the African Development Bank Group, highlighted the Bank’s legacy of impact and transformation. “Sixty years ago, the African Development Bank was born out of a vision for a better Africa. Today, we celebrate not just numbers but the lives transformed and communities uplifted through our work,” she said.
Key Achievements in Southern Africa
With an active portfolio of 226 projects worth USD 11 billion, the Bank’s unwavering commitment to fostering sustainable growth and integration in Southern Africa is evident. Notable achievements include:
- SADC Sub-Regional Transport and Facilitation Project: A USD 231.3 million investment connecting Malawi and Mozambique, fostering trade, and mitigating regional fragility.
- Lesotho Highlands Water Project: A USD 2.1 billion initiative enhancing water transfer and hydroelectric power, essential for energy security.
- Kazungula Bridge Project: A USD 81.6 million investment strengthening connectivity between Zambia and Botswana along the North-South Corridor.
- Support for Transnet: A recent USD 1 billion sovereign-guaranteed corporate loan to aid South Africa’s freight transport recovery and growth.
The celebration also underscored the deep partnership between the Bank and the Government of South Africa. Honourable Minister Enoch Godongwana shared his reflections on this enduring collaboration:
“The Government of the Republic of South Africa celebrates this significant milestone with the African Development Bank. Our region, and indeed South Africa, continues to enjoy a fruitful partnership with the Bank as we work together toward a shared goal of creating a better Africa for future generations.
As we gather to celebrate the many achievements of our collaborative efforts, we also recognise the need to continue advancing Africa’s development agenda. This milestone energises us and strengthens our commitment to a shared vision for the next 60 years!”
Looking Ahead: A Vision for the Future
As the Bank embarks on its new Ten-Year Strategy, it prioritises integrated regional projects and climate resilience. Projects like the Lobito Rail Integrated Corridor, connecting Angola, DRC, and Zambia, promise to drive economic growth, agriculture value chains and renewable energy investments.
“Our work is far from over,” Ms Mokaddem noted. “We invite all partners—governments, private sector actors, and international institutions—to join us in building a more inclusive and sustainable Africa. Together, we can address climate-related challenges and mobilise resources to ensure no one is left behind.”
A Commitment to Africa’s Development
Under the leadership of President Dr Akinwumi A. Adesina, the Bank has maintained its AAA rating and authorised capital of USD 318 billion, with nearly 2,000 staff serving all 54 African countries. The institution continues to champion its “High 5s” priorities: lighting up and powering Africa, feeding Africa, industrialising Africa, integrating Africa, and improving the quality of life for the people of Africa.
The 60th-anniversary celebrations are a testament to the Bank’s resilience and the enduring support of its partners. The African Development Bank remains steadfast in its mission to transform lives and catalyse growth across the continent.
To view our anniversary video that encapsulates these achievements and our vision for the future, please see below:
Africa Fact: In central Nigeria, West Africa’s oldest civilisation flourished between 1000 BC and 300 BC. Discovered in 1928, the ancient culture was called the Nok Civilisation, named after the village in which the early artefacts were discovered. Two modern scholars, declare that “[a]fter calibration, the period of Nok art spans from 1000 BC until 300 BC”. The site itself is much older going back as early as 4580 or 4290 BC.
Redfisher
Van der Merwe is approached by SANRAL one day who want to build a new highway through his donkey farm. Van is really concerned with how his donkeys can get from one side of the farm to the other without having to cross the highway and risk being injured or killed. He is promised that they will build bridges the highway so that his donkeys can cross under the highway. Van agrees and gives them the go-ahead.
The highway is built and a year later the same rep goes to the farm to go see how Van and his donkeys are. He eventually finds Van under one of these bridges chipping away at the roof of the tunnel with a hammer and chisel.
\”Mnr Van de Merwe, what are you doing damaging the highway bridge?\”
Sienna Princess
It is wise to remember that firefighters fight fire with water before you fight fire with fire