Speaking at the Saudi Fund for Development's 50th anniversary celebration in Riyadh, Akinwumi Adesina, President of the African Development Bank Group, highlighted the fund's impact across 407 projects in 41 sub-Saharan African countries, totaling over $5.3 billion in investment. These projects encompass a wide range of sectors, from irrigation and energy infrastructure to healthcare facilities, education, and transportation.
Adesina praised the fund's commitment to deepening Saudi-African ties, exemplified by the successful Saudi-Africa Summit held in November 2023, which outlined a roadmap for future cooperation.
He also commended the fund's unique approach to development financing, emphasizing its "unlimited territorial scope" and focus on meeting the specific needs of countries. This, coupled with its supportive, dedicated, and friendly approach, has fostered positive relations with African nations.
Adesina expressed confidence in the continued success of the strong partnership between the African Development Bank and Saudi Arabia, emphasizing the fruitful collaboration that has resulted in significant co-financing for projects in Africa. He believes this partnership will continue to thrive, accelerating Africa's development.