Probe storm threatens to cut short AfDB boss race

Friday, May 29, 2020 0:01

By JAMES KARIUKI

Dr Akinwumi Ayodeji Adesina, President of the African Development Bank.

PHOTO | CYRIL NDEGEYA 

The oft-sharply-dressed Akiwumi Ayodeji Adesina was assured of a successful second shot at the African Development Bank (AfDB) presidency until the US government questioned goings-on during his tenure.

This was a major show of confidence and last December the Economic Community of West African States (Ecowas), during its annual meeting bringing together 15 countries, topped it up by saying that Dr Adesina’s sterling performance had enhanced African economies, notably the regional integration agenda championed by AfDB that birthed the African Continental Free Trade Area.

AfDB’s ethics committee headed by Ms Paula Santos da Costa recommended cessation of all probes against Dr Adesina to the board, saying no evidence on nepotism had been proved against the Nigerian national, but that was shot down by US Treasury Secretary Steven Mnuchin.

While attending the Climate Action Summit in New York last September, Dr Adesina optimistically hinted at his continued stay at AfDB for another five years, saying he would work towards doubling funding commitments to Sh2.5 trillion starting in 2020 to 2025 to help African countries address the challenges of climate change.