** Election at the head of the African Development Bank: a new chapter for the institution? **
On May 29, 2025, the African Development Bank (BAD) marked a significant turning point in its history with the election of Sid Ould Tah as president, following a ballot which revealed the dynamics and the issues underlying the economic governance of the continent. The first Mauritanian to access this position, Mr. Tah won the election with 76% of the votes, against the backdrop of multiple challenges, both economically and politically.
### The context of the election
The election of Sid Ould Tah comes after a ten -year term of his predecessor, Akinwumi Adesina, who was greeted for having managed to triple the subscribed capital of the BAD, bringing it to 318 billion USD. Under its direction, the AfDB has also seen a strengthening of its influence in the financing of infrastructure projects, thus contributing to notable advances in fields such as water, sanitation, and energy through the continent. These achievements raise an important question: what inheritance will Mr. Tah manage to lay down the bases of a new Bad?
### The challenges to be met
The new president finds himself in an uncertain global economic environment, aggravated by recurring financial crises, increasing food insecurity and challenges related to the energy transition. Added to this are the still felt impacts of health crises like that of COVID-19, which updated the structural vulnerabilities of African economies. The BAD, as a flagship financial institution of the continent, must take up these challenges with pragmatism.
It should be noted that the election of Mr. Tah was also marked by a significant participation of the member countries, where he was able to bring together a significant consensus. This process, which requires a double majority, testifies to African support, but also raises questions about the dynamics of regional representation within the BAD decision bodies. Indeed, this tendency to bring together the votes of African countries while respecting the diversity of national interests is a crucial issue for the legitimacy and efficiency of the institution.
### An institution at the service of development
The BAD plays a key role by offering development resources and facilitating the implementation of essential projects. With 81 member countries, it is both a symbol of unity and an influence tool for African nations on the international scene. The recent achievements of the BAD, such as development projects in Egypt and West Africa, show how regional expertise can result in tangible benefits for populations.
### What future for the bad under M. Tah?
The election of Sid Ould Tah marks the beginning of an era with its own aspirations and challenges. As a former Minister of the Economy of Mauritania, he brings significant experience to his new position. Its ability to navigate the various interests of the Member States will be crucial to build the coalitions necessary for the implementation of a vision of coherent development.
However, it is essential to wonder how its leadership could strengthen the position of the BAD in a rapidly changing world. How can he build on the heritage of Adesina while setting new ambitious goals? The question of adaptability in the face of climate change inevitability and the need for sustainable development is also urgent.
### Conclusion
The election of Sid Ould Tah as the presidency of the African Development Bank represents not only a pivotal moment for the institution, but also an opportunity for reflection on the challenges and opportunities that arise in Africa. Without question, the AfDB remains an essential player in the quest for Africa for sustainable and inclusive development.
In this perspective, Mr. Tah’s success will be measured not only by his skill in managing the internal affairs of the institution, but also by his ability to strengthen solidarity between Member States and to work for a future where BAD resources really benefit African populations. The path to go is uncertain, but it is undeniable that the BAD, under its new direction, has the potential to write a new important page in the economic history of the continent.