Bajabulile Swazi Tshabalala Declares Candidacy for AfDB Presidency

Bajabulile Swazi Tshabalala has officially announced her candidacy for the presidency of the African Development Bank with the support of the South African government. Finance Minister Enoch Godongwana endorses her leadership, citing her extensive experience in finance and economic development. Tshabalala’s key goals include bolstering infrastructure financing, promoting gender equality, and empowering youth as part of her vision for the AfDB.

Bajabulile Swazi Tshabalala, the former senior vice president of the African Development Bank (AfDB), has formally declared her candidacy for the presidency of the institution. Her announcement is backed by the South African government, highlighting their confidence in her leadership capabilities and vision for transforming the continent.

Enoch Godongwana, the Finance Minister, praised Tshabalala as an exceptional leader with extensive experience in finance, infrastructure, and economic development. He expressed that she is well-suited to guide the AfDB into a new era, enhancing its role in accelerating Africa’s economic transformation.

Bringing over three decades of expertise in infrastructure finance and economic development, Tshabalala has strategically mobilized capital for Africa’s challenges. Her leadership during the COVID-19 pandemic and the implementation of globally adopted funding mechanisms illustrate her innovative approach to financial resilience.

Tshabalala envisions a strong AfDB capable of addressing infrastructure challenges through innovative financing. She stated, “Africa stands at a pivotal moment, and the African Development Bank must rise to meet the continent’s ambitions with bold, strategic action.”

Her prior experience encompasses senior roles at organizations like Old Mutual Employee Benefits and Transnet, where she effectively managed large-scale projects. Furthermore, her innovation, including hybrid capital financing, positions the AfDB as a prominent financier for transformative projects across Africa.

Additionally, Tshabalala is committed to promoting gender equality and youth empowerment through the AfDB’s operational strategies. She seeks to ensure that women entrepreneurs and young professionals have access to opportunities, fostering inclusive growth on the continent.

Scheduled for 29 May 2025, the election for the next AfDB President will take place during the Board of Governors’ Annual Meeting in Abidjan. Throughout her campaign, Tshabalala intends to engage with stakeholders across Africa and share her vision for a resilient and impactful AfDB, essential for sustainable growth.

Bajabulile Swazi Tshabalala has announced her candidacy for the presidency of the African Development Bank, receiving significant backing from the South African government. With extensive experience and a commitment to innovation in infrastructure financing, she aims to strengthen the AfDB’s role in Africa’s economic transformation, while promoting gender equality and youth opportunities. The upcoming election in May 2025 will be pivotal for the future leadership of the AfDB.

Original Source: www.arise.tv