African Development Bank Group to Build Modern Headquarters in Abidjan

The African Development Bank Group (AfDB) has announced plans to construct a state-of-the-art headquarters in Abidjan, Côte d’Ivoire, following unanimous approval from its Boards of Directors.

The decision underscores the Bank’s commitment to maintaining its strong presence in Côte d’Ivoire’s commercial capital and investing in a work environment that promotes staff well-being and productivity.

Dr. Akinwumi Adesina, President of the AfDB and Chairman of the Boards of Directors, hailed the decision as a milestone for the institution. “This is historic for the staff of the Bank, for the Bank itself, for Cote d’Ivoire and for Africa, as it sends a clear message that the African Development Bank, as Africa’s premier financial institution, deserves a headquarters befitting its global reputation,” he stated.

The new headquarters is envisioned as a symbol of progress and innovation, reinforcing the Bank’s role in driving Africa’s development agenda.

“This is a great day for the African Development Bank Group. It marks the realization of a vision I had when I was elected as President in 2015 to work to put in place a suitable headquarters building for the Bank in Abidjan. This is to reflect our collective aspiration to enhance our overall business operations, staff and Board welfare, world-class workplace experience, enhanced productivity of the Bank, as we accelerate the development of Africa,” said Adesina.

The new headquarters building will also provide enhanced facilities to receive and interact with its shareholders and stakeholders, while aligning the Bank’s work environment with its commitment to green growth, energy efficiency and safety.

The Dean of the Bank Group’s Boards of Directors Adama Koné, who is the executive director representing Cote d’Ivoire on the Boards of Directors, presented the approved title deed for the site by the Government to Dr. Adesina.

Dr. Adesina expressed gratitude to President Alassane Ouattara of the Republic of Cote d’Ivoire and the government of Cote d’Ivoire for their strong support of the Bank while noting, “The decision taken today by our Boards of Directors shows the Bank is here to stay permanently in Cote d’Ivoire, our home, for today and in the future. We look forward to the strong support of the Government of Cote d’Ivoire as we embark on this historic landmark project”.