At a Glance
- Luxembourg increases development funding, supporting climate, governance, and women’s economic empowerment across Africa.
- AfDB partnership channels private capital into infrastructure, technology, and resilient energy projects.
- ADF-17 cycle aims to create jobs and strengthen Africa’s low-income economies.
African Development Bank and Luxembourg have strengthened their partnership to accelerate Africa’s sustainable growth.
During their first official bilateral discussion at the 2025 IMF and World Bank Annual Meetings, AfDB President Dr. Sidi Ould Tah and Luxembourg’s Finance Minister Gilles Roth reaffirmed commitments to climate resilience, inclusive economic development, and private-sector investment across Africa.
With the ADF-17 pledging session approaching, both leaders emphasized funding strategies to support vulnerable economies and foster long-term growth across the continent.
Long-standing cooperation reinforced
The discussion underscored years of collaboration between Luxembourg and the African Development Bank, grounded in shared priorities around inclusive economic growth.
Both leaders reiterated their support for multilateral development efforts and their commitment to helping Africa’s most vulnerable economies navigate global economic uncertainty and climate-related challenges.
Luxembourg remains a global leader in development financing, dedicating 1 percent of its gross national income to official development assistance, well above the 0.7 percent benchmark set by the United Nations and the OECD.
During the current ADF-16 cycle, Luxembourg contributed €12.7 million ($14.69 million), a 10 percent increase from the previous round. Its support focuses on climate resilience, women’s economic empowerment, good governance, and private-sector development.
A shared commitment to sustainable development
“Africa’s development needs remain substantial, particularly in education, energy, technology, infrastructure, and climate action,” Roth said. “Luxembourg’s financial sector, with expertise in sustainable finance and impact investing, is well placed to channel private capital toward these priorities.
We will continue working with the African Development Bank to strengthen investment in Africa and build a more resilient and equitable future.”
Dr. Ould Tah praised Luxembourg as “a reliable and forward-looking partner for Africa.” He added, “Its leadership in sustainable finance and commitment to effective multilateralism continue to make a difference across the continent.
As we approach the ADF-17 pledging session in December, Luxembourg’s partnership will be essential in mobilizing resources that support resilience, inclusion, and shared prosperity.”
Beyond development funding
Luxembourg’s engagement extends beyond funding. It is a founding donor to the Bank’s Capital Markets Development Trust Fund and supports the Africa Digital Financial Inclusion Facility, initiatives that expand market access, foster innovation, and strengthen private-sector investment across Africa.
Since 1972, the African Development Fund has supported nearly 3,000 projects worth over $45 billion, connecting communities to clean energy, healthcare, education, and transportation in 37 low-income countries, many affected by fragility or conflict.
Looking ahead to ADF-17
The ADF-17 cycle is expected to mobilize new resources for programs that create jobs, boost climate resilience, and strengthen economic opportunities for millions of Africans. Both leaders emphasized that sustained investment in Africa is critical not just for the continent’s future but for global stability and shared prosperity.
