“The SADC region is fully united in supporting Mr Sakala. We are of the view that the turn is now for SADC to lead the African Development Bank and we have a candidate who ‘is made to fit’ the bank’s agenda in support of the transformation of African economies,” the Ministry said.

The Ministry said Sakala has 31 years of experience at the AfDB and good knowledge of Africa’s development issues. He has held various positions at the bank, including Vice President for Country and Regional Programmes.

“Sakala’s mission is to sustain and enhance the transformation of the African Development Bank and Africa. The closure of the infrastructure gap in the continent will be his priority, with special attention to the challenges of rapid urbanisation, promoting intra-Africa trade and the transformation of the rural economies.

Available: http://www.sanews.gov.za/south-africa/sakala-backed-sadc-afdb-presidency