Former AfDB senior vice president Bajabulile Swazi Tshabalala has announced her candidacy for the bank’s presidency, with support from the South African government. She brings over three decades of experience in finance and infrastructure development, emphasizing innovative financing and infrastructure priorities in her vision for the AfDB. The election is set for May 29, 2025.
Bajabulile Swazi Tshabalala, the former senior vice president of the African Development Bank (AfDB), has formally announced her candidacy for the presidency of the institution. Her announcement is backed by the South African government, which underscores their confidence in her leadership expertise and vision for Africa’s future. Finance Minister Enoch Godongwana highlighted her exceptional leadership skills and extensive experience as vital assets to the AfDB’s growth and adaptability in financial matters.
With over 30 years of experience in infrastructure finance and economic development, Tshabalala has significantly contributed to mobilizing capital to meet Africa’s urgent development needs. She guided the AfDB’s financial strategies during the COVID-19 pandemic and introduced innovative funding mechanisms that have gained global recognition. Her candidacy reflects a commitment to strengthening the AfDB’s role in facilitating economic transformation across the continent.
In her statement, Tshabalala expressed her ambitious vision for AfDB, focusing on innovative solutions to infrastructure challenges. She remarked, “Africa stands at a pivotal moment, and the African Development Bank must rise to meet the continent’s ambitions with bold, strategic action.” Her goals include expanding resourceful financing approaches and fostering partnerships that drive impactful results for African nations.
Tshabalala’s prior positions include key leadership roles at Old Mutual Employee Benefits, Standard Bank Group, and she served as CEO of the Industrial Development Group from 2006 to 2014. Her time at the AfDB began in 2018, attaining the senior vice president role in 2021 until her resignation in January 2024. This career path exemplifies her capability to handle large-scale infrastructure projects successfully.
Her presidency would prioritize infrastructure development, with a focus on essential systems such as transportation, energy, and digital connectivity, which are crucial for sustainable economic growth. Drawing lessons from her experience at Transnet, she acknowledges the importance of effective infrastructure projects in stimulating long-term economic activity.
Additionally, Tshabalala promotes gender equality and youth empowerment within the AfDB’s strategic agenda. As a notable African woman, she aims to ensure that the institution’s funding objectives support women entrepreneurs and young professionals, fostering inclusive development across Africa.
The election for the new President of the African Development Bank is set for May 29, 2025, during the Annual Meeting of the Board of Governors in Abidjan. Tshabalala is anticipated to engage with various stakeholders throughout the continent and beyond, advocating for a financially resilient and impactful AfDB that will serve as a vital engine for sustainable growth.
Bajabulile Swazi Tshabalala’s candidacy for the presidency of the African Development Bank signifies a strong commitment to economic development and infrastructure growth in Africa. Supported by the South African government, her extensive experience positions her as a credible candidate capable of leading the AfDB towards innovative financial solutions and impactful policies. With a focus on gender equality and youth empowerment, Tshabalala is dedicated to ensuring inclusive and sustainable growth across the continent.
Original Source: www.arise.tv
