Mozambique celebrates 60 years of impactful partnership with the African Development Bank

Mozambique recently celebrated the 60th anniversary of the African Development Bank (AfDB) in a special ceremony held in Maputo, highlighting decades of transformative partnership between the bank and the southern African nation. The event, themed “60 Years of Making a Difference,” brought together government officials, development partners, and key stakeholders to reflect on the bank’s contributions to Mozambique’s growth and the broader continent.

In his keynote address, Mozambique’s Prime Minister and Minister of Economy and Finance, Adriano Maleiane, commended the African Development Bank as a crucial partner in the country’s development journey. “The African Development Bank continues to play an essential role in promoting transformative change and fostering sustainable development across the continent,” Maleiane said. “I am confident that our partnership will continue to strengthen, and together we will achieve our shared vision of a prosperous and sustainable Mozambique and Africa.”

Also speaking at the event, Mozambique’s Minister of Transport and Communications, Mateus Magala, a former Vice President for Corporate Services and Human Resources at the AfDB, reflected on the significance of the milestone. “It is an honor to witness the 60th anniversary of an institution that has contributed so much to Africa’s progress. The bank provides a clear path forward for eradicating poverty and promoting economic growth,” he said.

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Macmillan Anyanwu, AfDB’s Interim Country Manager in Mozambique, underscored the institution’s long-standing relationship with the country. “As we celebrate six decades of achievements, we must not lose sight of the challenges ahead,” Anyanwu noted, pointing to issues such as climate change, poverty, and rising debt. He reaffirmed the bank’s commitment to working with Mozambique’s government and development partners to tackle these challenges.

Since 1977, the African Development Bank has been a vital partner in Mozambique’s development, supporting over 130 projects worth $3.8 billion. These projects have spanned crucial sectors like agriculture, energy, transportation, water, sanitation, and social services. With an ongoing portfolio valued at $1.3 billion, the bank’s work continues to make a significant impact in driving the country’s economic and social development.

The celebration of this milestone not only marked 60 years of partnership but also looked ahead to continued collaboration, ensuring a brighter, more prosperous future for Mozambique and the African continent.