Rabah Arezki: Visionary Economist Eyeing the AfDB Presidency

Rabah Arezki, a distinguished economist and global thought leader, is one of the candidates in line to succeed Akinwunmi Adesina as President of the African Development Bank (AfDB).

Known for his extensive contributions to economic research and policymaking, Arezki brings a wealth of experience and a bold vision for the institution’s future.

Background

Currently serving as a Director of Research at the French National Center for Scientific Research (CNRS), Arezki is also a Senior Fellow at Harvard University’s John F. Kennedy School of Government. He is also a Nonresident Senior Fellow at the Middle East Council on Global Affairs and a Research Fellow at the Economic Research Forum in Cairo.

Previously, Arezki held several key positions, including:

• Chief Economist and Vice President for Economic Governance and Knowledge Management at the AfDB.
• Chief Economist for the Middle East and North Africa Region at the World Bank.
• Chief of the Commodities Unit in the Research Department at the International Monetary Fund.

During his tenure at the AfDB, Arezki championed efforts to rebuild African economies stronger and more resilient in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic. He emphasized using the crisis as an opportunity to implement structural reforms, improve transparency, strengthen institutions, and drive sustainable development.

Arezki also made significant strides in financial modeling for the extractive sector, helping African nations optimize their natural resource management. His research and publications have focused on energy markets, macroeconomics, and regional development, further solidifying his reputation as a thought leader in these areas.

Campaign Vision

Rabah Arezki’s campaign for Afdb presidency centers on addressing governance challenges at the AfDB. He has called for reforms to enhance the institution’s effectiveness and has pledged to prioritize transparency, accountability, and sustainability in its operations.

Known for his outspoken critiques of ineffective leadership systems in Africa, Arezki advocates for robust economic and governance reforms as cornerstones of his agenda. His vision aims to strengthen the AfDB’s role as a catalyst for inclusive growth and development across the continent.

As a prolific writer and policy advocate, Arezki’s platform reflects his deep commitment to advancing Africa’s development through innovative solutions, strong leadership, and collaborative partnerships.

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