- Cementing over five-decades of partnership with Zambia
The African Development Bank (AfDB) Group commenced construction of its permanent country office in Lusaka on Friday, marking a transformative milestone in the institution’s 54-year partnership with Zambia.
Since establishing its temporary country office in 2007 with just four staff members, the African Development Bank’s presence in Zambia has grown to 20 permanent staff. The Bank’s cumulative investment in Zambia now stands at $2.7 billion across multiple sectors, with a current active portfolio worth nearly $1 billion.
The groundbreaking event was attended by Finance and National Planning Minister Dr. Situmbeko Musokotwane; African Development Bank’s Vice President for Regional Development, Integration and Business Delivery, Nnenna Nwabufo; the Bank’s Director of Real Estate Management, Procurement and General Services, Gail Meakin, as well as other senior government officials, members of the diplomatic community, other development partners, and private sector chief executive officers.
The new office design incorporates cutting-edge sustainability features and wellness-focused design. It will house expanded operations while contributing to Zambia’s economic growth through job creation and business stimulation during both construction and operation. The building is expected to be completed by 2027. It will be a smart building with conferencing and staff wellness facilities, with low energy consumption, a wastewater recycling system, and large green spaces.
Dr. Musokotwane emphasized the significance of a permanent office. “This occasion is not just ceremonial – it’s a vote of confidence in our country, our government, and our people. It recognizes Zambia’s commitment to forge a better future for Africa.
The Minister thanked the African Development Bank for providing much needed financial support during Zambia’s development journey and conveyed the President of Zambia’s support for the Bank’s decision to establish a permanent office building and continued development work in the country.
“The African Development Bank’s support has produced many positive results in sectors such as transport, agriculture, water and sanitation, and energy. This shows the Bank’s commitment to deliver on its vision for the African continent,” the Minister said. “AfDB’s support to Zambia has been instrumental in supporting the country’s development goals espoused in the national development plans, which emphasize, among others, the need to build resilient infrastructure, promote inclusive and sustainable industrialization, and foster innovation in all the sectors of the economy.”
The Kazungula Bridge Project, supported by the AfDB, is strengthening connectivity between Zambia and Botswana along the North-South Corridor.
Musokotwane listed some of the Bank’s transformative work in Zambia, singling out the Kazungula Bridge Project, for special commendation.
Leave a Reply
Leave a Reply
