Harare, Zimbabwe – The Southern African Development Community (SADC) has endorsed Dr. Samuel M. Maimbo, a Zambian national, as its candidate for the position of President of the African Development Bank (AfDB). The endorsement came during the 44th Ordinary SADC Summit of Heads of State and Government held in Harare on August 17, 2024.
Dr. Maimbo, selected through a competitive process among seven SADC candidates, brings a wealth of experience to the table. He currently serves as the Vice President for Budget, Performance Review, and Strategic Planning at the World Bank Group. In this role, he oversees the World Bank’s annual budget and resource allocation, ensuring they align with the institution’s strategic priorities and financial objectives.
With nearly three decades of experience in development, financial markets, resource mobilization, and strategic planning, Dr. Maimbo has held various senior positions at the World Bank, including serving as Chief of Staff to World Bank Presidents and Director of the International Development Association’s Resource Mobilization department.
His expertise spans diverse areas such as financial sector development, infrastructure finance, and climate finance. Prior to joining the World Bank, Dr. Maimbo worked as a Bank Inspector at the Bank of Zambia and an Auditor at PricewaterhouseCoopers (PWC).
SADC Member States are now urged to campaign and support Dr. Maimbo in his bid for the AfDB presidency.