#AfDBAM2020: What Adesina's re-election means for the next phase of Africa’s development

Akinwumi Adesina, following his re-election with a hundred per cent votes, is set to serve another five years as President of the African Development Bank. This outcome has sparked discussions on what the next phase in Africa's development will look like under his leadership. In a recent interview on CNBC Africa, Amadou Hott, a Governor of the African Development Bank representing Senegal, shared his insights on the significance of Adesina's re-election and the key priorities for the bank moving forward. The unanimous support from shareholders and governors is seen as a vote of confidence in Adesina's vision for the bank and his ability to drive reforms and innovation amidst the challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic. Reflecting on the past five years, Hott highlighted the bank's strategic priorities known as the 'High 5s' – namely, light up and power Africa, feed Africa, industrialize Africa, integrate Africa, and improve the quality of life for the African people. These strategies have guided the bank's efforts in areas such as access to energy, food security, industrialization, trade integration, and healthcare infrastructure. Under Adesina's leadership, significant progress has been made in expanding access to electricity, particularly through renewable energy sources. The bank's focus on food security has become even more crucial in light of the challenges faced during the COVID-19 crisis, emphasizing the importance of self-sufficiency in food production. The drive to industrialize Africa and promote intra-African trade has also been underscored as critical for the continent's economic resilience. Looking ahead, Hott emphasized the need for continued collaboration with international partners such as the World Bank, the French Agency for Development, and the European Union to strengthen social infrastructure and healthcare systems across Africa. The role of the private sector, particularly through Public-Private Partnerships (PPP), will be vital in driving infrastructure development and fostering sustainable growth. In conclusion, Adesina's re-election signals a new chapter for the African Development Bank as it navigates the complex landscape of post-COVID recovery and sustainable development. The bank's commitment to its strategic priorities and partnerships with key stakeholders will be crucial in driving progress and improving the lives of people across the continent.