Dr. Akinwumi Adesina, President of the African Development Bank Group, praised Saudi Arabia for its significant contributions to development projects across Africa. Speaking at the Saudi Fund for Development’s 50th anniversary in Riyadh, Adesina highlighted the Kingdom’s support for 407 projects in 41 sub-Saharan African countries, totalling over $5.3 billion in funding.
These projects span various sectors, including food production through irrigation, energy generation via dams, healthcare facilities, and infrastructure development such as roads and airports. Adesina emphasised that the Saudi Fund’s approach is driven by the needs of the countries it supports, setting it apart from other development partners.
Adesina also acknowledged the strengthened relationship between Saudi Arabia and Africa, noting the significance of the Saudi-Africa Summit held in November 2023, where over 40 African leaders participated. He concluded by affirming the African Development Bank’s commitment to continue partnering with Saudi Arabia in advancing Africa’s development.
