Abidjan, Côte d’Ivoire. The minister for Finance, Dr Mwigulu Nchemba, has said the government deeply appreciates the longstanding and strategic partnership between Tanzania and the African Development Bank (AfDB), crediting it with the implementation of major development projects in infrastructure, energy, water, agriculture and social welfare sectors.
Dr Nchemba made the remarks while delivering a summary of Tanzania’s participation in the 60th Annual Meeting of the AfDB Board of Governors and the 51st Annual Meeting of the Board of Governors of the African Development Fund (ADF), held at the Sofitel Ivoire Hotel in Abidjan, Côte d’Ivoire.
He said the collaboration with AfDB has expanded significantly in recent years, with the government currently implementing 25 strategic development projects, 21 of which are public sector initiatives covering both Mainland Tanzania and Zanzibar, while four are private-sector-led.
These projects span sectors such as infrastructure, energy, transportation, water, sanitation, and agriculture, collectively valued at US$3.54 billion.
Among the key projects cited by Dr Nchemba were the construction of the Standard Gauge Railway (SGR), the development of the Dodoma ring roads, and the building of the Msalato International Airport in Dodoma Region—all of which are poised to transform Tanzania’s economy upon completion.
“These projects are aligned with national priorities, the African Union’s Agenda 2063 and the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Tanzania intends to continue its engagement with AfDB through the ADF-17 framework and other funding mechanisms to accelerate inclusive and sustainable development across the country and the continent,” Dr Nchemba said.
He further stated that under the ADF’s 17th replenishment cycle, Tanzania will continue to access financial resources through various financing instruments, including credit guarantees, to support large-scale infrastructure projects that benefit Tanzanian citizens.
Commenting on the newly elected President of the AfDB, Dr Sidi Ould Tah, Dr Nchemba noted that the new president is no stranger to Tanzania.
He congratulated him on his election and affirmed Tanzania’s readiness to work closely with him in pursuit of the country’s development priorities, in continuation of the legacy of his predecessor, Dr Akinwumi Adesina.
The African Development Bank, now marking 60 years since its establishment, comprises 81 member countries—including 54 from Africa—and has played a significant role in driving economic and social progress on the continent, including in Tanzania.
Also in attendance at the annual meetings were 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, alongside other senior government officials from Tanzania.
