By Ashiadey Dotse
A candidate for the African Development Bank (AfDB) presidency, Dr. Samuel Munzele Maimbo, has shared his vision for Africa’s growth.
Speaking on GTV’s Breakfast Show with Thelma Tackie on Monday February 24, 2025, he emphasised that Africa’s success depends on going back to the basics of development.
Dr. Maimbo, who has worked in global development for 30 years, believes that Africa already has the solutions it needs. He pointed out that the strategies used by Europe after World War II and those that helped China and India grow could also work for Africa. However, he stressed that execution is key.
“Africa has more than enough plans. The issue is execution, execution, execution,” he said. He identified infrastructure, education, and energy as critical areas for development. According to him, Africa must grow at an unprecedented pace to create jobs, meet the aspirations of young people, and ensure governments can fund prosperity.
Drawing from his experience with the World Bank and collaborations with institutions like the Asian Development Bank and AfDB, Dr. Maimbo highlighted his ability to implement policies that lead to tangible results. He noted that Africa has 60% of the world’s arable land but still imports most of its food. He believes that boosting intra-African trade is key to economic growth.
“There’s no reason why most of Ghana’s agricultural exports shouldn’t be going to neighbouring countries and vice versa,” he stated.
Reflecting on his journey, Dr. Maimbo shared that he initially wanted to be an artist but was encouraged by his father to pursue finance. This path, he said, helped him understand how money flows and how it can be used to transform economies.
He also called for Africa to shift its focus from dependence on aid and debt to generating revenue and investments. “We have to break this cycle of aid and debt. It’s time to focus on growth and prosperity,” he said.
As he seeks the AfDB presidency, Dr. Maimbo is determined to be a hands-on leader, ensuring that Africa’s development is practical, effective, and impactful.
