The African Development Bank (AfDB) has garnered widespread international recognition for its transformative work across the continent, cementing its status as Africa’s premier multilateral development institution.
Established in 1964 to serve as Africa’s own bank, the AfDB has evolved into a powerhouse of development finance, maintaining an unbroken AAA rating for nearly a decade—an exceptional feat among African institutions. This rating, conferred by top agencies including Moody’s, S&P, and Fitch, underscores its financial strength and commitment to development.
The Bank’s impact spans sectors from agriculture to infrastructure. Since 2015, its “High 5” strategic priorities have driven real progress, reaching over 515 million people—231 million of them women—with initiatives like the Technologies for African Agricultural Transformation (TAAT) and the African Emergency Food Production Facility.
During the COVID-19 pandemic, the AfDB led Africa’s response with a $10 billion fund and the landmark $3 billion “Fight Covid-19” social bond, earning accolades such as “Best Covid-19 Pandemic Bond Issuer.” Its entry into the global green bond initiative and issuance of hybrid capital further demonstrate its leadership in sustainable finance.
Recognition of the Bank’s excellence includes being named “Best Global Multilateral Financial Institution 2021” by Global Finance magazine, topping the Aid Transparency Index, and earning top spots from the Center for Global Development.
With its capital base soaring from $93 billion in 2015 to $318 billion in 2024, the AfDB’s decade under President Dr. Akinwumi Adesina—set to end this May—has been defined by innovation, resilience, and bold leadership.
As accolades pour in, perhaps the most powerful endorsement comes from the millions of Africans whose lives have been changed by the Bank’s mission-driven work.
