The African Development Bank (AfDB) aspiring presidential candidate, Samuel Maimbo, has pledged to position the Bank as the first point of contact for African governments grappling with pressing issues such as debt, climate change and unemployment among other issues.

Dr Maimbo stresses the importance of preparing the continent for intraregional trade and increasing investment in critical infrastructure and energy to create jobs for millions of youths.

Speaking during a series of interviews with leading media organisations in Paris, Dr Maimbo articulated his vision for impactful plus efficient leadership that prioritises the needs of African nations. 

He committed to strategically investing in traditional sectors such as agriculture and the emerging creative industries, which he believes have enormous potential to generate the jobs Africa urgently needs.

“My presidency will focus on ensuring that the AfDB operates efficiently, impacts lives, and delivers results at a pace and scale that can drive sustained economic growth across Africa,” he stated.

Dr Maimbo further committed to strengthening partnerships that were established by the outgoing AfDB President, Akinwumi Adesina.

This is contained in a statement issued to ZANIS, by the First Secretary for Press at the Embassy of the Republic of Zambia in Paris, Naomi Mweemba today.