By The Respondent ReporterTanzania’s Minister for Finance, Dr. Mwigulu Lameck Nchemba (MP), has commended the African Development Bank (AfDB) for its vital role in supporting Tanzania’s socio-economic transformation through strategic development projects across key sectors.
Speaking at the conclusion of Tanzania’s participation in the 60th Annual Meeting of the AfDB Board of Governors and the 51st Meeting of the Board of Governors of the African Development Fund (ADF), held at the Sofitel Ivoire Hotel in Abidjan, Côte d’Ivoire, Dr. Nchemba said the Government of the United Republic of Tanzania values the strong and strategic partnership it enjoys with the Bank.
He noted that this collaboration has enabled the implementation of transformative projects in infrastructure, energy, water, agriculture, and social welfare. Over recent years, Tanzania has significantly scaled up its cooperation with AfDB.
Currently, the country is implementing 25 strategic projects valued at USD 3.54 billion—21 led by the government (covering both Mainland Tanzania and Zanzibar) and four involving the private sector.
“These projects include major infrastructure initiatives such as the Standard Gauge Railway (SGR), Dodoma’s ring roads, and Msalato International Airport, all of which are poised to drive economic transformation across the country,” Dr. Nchemba stated.
He emphasized that the projects align with Tanzania’s national development priorities, the African Union’s Agenda 2063, and the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
“Tanzania looks forward to deepening this cooperation through ADF-17 and other AfDB financing mechanisms to accelerate inclusive and sustainable growth both nationally and across the region,” he added.
Dr. Nchemba further noted that under the African Development Fund’s 17th replenishment cycle (ADF-17), Tanzania will continue to access financial resources through various instruments, including credit guarantees, to support large-scale infrastructure projects that improve the well-being of citizens.
Commenting on the newly elected President of the AfDB, Dr. Sidi Ould Tah, the Finance Minister extended his congratulations and highlighted the President’s familiarity with Tanzania.
“We are confident that under his leadership, Tanzania will continue to work closely with the Bank to advance its development agenda, just as it did with his predecessor, Dr. Akinwumi Adesina,” he said.
As the African Development Bank marks its 60th anniversary since establishment, with a membership of 81 countries including 54 from Africa it continues to play a crucial role in driving economic and social progress across the continent, including in Tanzania.
The high-level annual meetings in Abidjan were also attended by Tanzania’s Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Finance and Paymaster General, Dr. Natu El-maamry Mwamba; Commissioner for External Finance, Mr. Rished Bade; Assistant Cabinet Secretary, Mr. Fidelis Mkatte; and other senior government officials.
