Ex-VP Swazi Tshabalala Declares Candidacy for AfDB Presidency

Swazi Tshabalala, a seasoned financial strategist and former Senior Vice President of the African Development Bank (AfDB), has officially thrown her hat into the ring for the presidency of the institution. The announcement came on Wednesday through a detailed statement released by BTS For Africa on her behalf, marking the start of her campaign to steer the AfDB toward a future of financial strength and transformative growth across the continent. With a robust background in finance, infrastructure, and economic development, Tshabalala is positioning herself as a visionary leader ready to address Africa’s pressing economic challenges.

South Africa Throws Full Support Behind Tshabalala

Tshabalala’s candidacy has received a significant boost from the South African government, which has pledged its unwavering support. South Africa’s Minister of Finance, Enoch Godongwana, praised her as a standout leader with a wealth of experience that uniquely qualifies her for the role.

“Swazi Tshabalala is an exceptional leader with a proven track record in finance, infrastructure, and economic development,” Godongwana remarked. He highlighted her tenure at the AfDB and her broader contributions, stating, “Her extensive experience makes her the ideal candidate to guide the institution into a new era of financial resilience and impact-driven growth.” The minister expressed confidence that under Tshabalala’s leadership.

A Bold Vision for the African Development Bank

In articulating her goals for the AfDB, Tshabalala outlined a comprehensive vision centered on building a financially robust and results-oriented institution. She emphasized the importance of strategic investments in key areas such as infrastructure, alongside fostering greater private sector involvement and ensuring financial sustainability.

“Africa stands at a pivotal moment, and the African Development Bank must rise to meet the continent’s ambitions with bold, strategic action,” she declared in her statement.

Her plan includes expanding innovative financing solutions and strengthening partnerships to unlock the continent’s vast economic potential. For Tshabalala, the focus is not solely on investment but on delivering tangible, long-lasting benefits to African nations and their people.

Leadership Rooted in Experience

Tshabalala brings a wealth of expertise to her candidacy, drawing from her time as Senior Vice President of the AfDB and her broader career in financial strategy. Her track record showcases a deep understanding of the economic dynamics shaping Africa, as well as the practical know-how to implement large-scale development projects.

Supporters point to her leadership qualities as evidence of her readiness to take on the presidency. “South Africa fully supports her candidacy and believes she will elevate the AfDB’s impact,” Godongwana reiterated, underscoring the nation’s belief in her ability to lead the institution into a new chapter of growth and resilience.

The Road to the AfDB Presidency

The election for the next AfDB President is scheduled for May 29, 2025, during the Bank’s Annual Meeting of the Board of Governors, which will be held in Abidjan, Côte d’Ivoire. As the date approaches, Tshabalala’s campaign is expected to gain momentum, with her vision resonating among stakeholders eager to see the AfDB play a more dynamic role in Africa’s development. Her emphasis on infrastructure, innovative financing, and partnerships aligns with the continent’s need for sustainable economic progress, making her a contender to watch in the upcoming election.

A Call for Transformative Change

Tshabalala’s candidacy comes at a time when Africa faces both unprecedented opportunities and complex challenges. Her pledge to prioritize transformative growth reflects an understanding of the continent’s ambitions and the role the AfDB must play in realizing them. “This is not just about investment it’s about delivering real, lasting impact,” she stressed, encapsulating her commitment to results-driven leadership. As she prepares to compete for the presidency, Tshabalala aims to rally support around a shared goal: an AfDB that empowers African nations to harness their full economic potential and build a prosperous future for all.

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