AfDB Appoints Mbekeani As DG For Southern Africa Region

The African Development Bank Group (AfDB) has appointed Dr. Kennedy K. Mbekeani as the new Director- General (DG) for its Southern Africa Regional Development and Business Delivery Office and Country Manager for South Africa, effective May 1, 2025.

A seasoned development economist with over 25 years of experience, Dr. Mbekeani is set to oversee the bank’s sovereign and non-sovereign operations in the region, building on a track record of managing complex portfolios and driving policy-focused, high-impact development strategies.

Dr. Mbekeani’s appointment signals AfDB’s strategic focus on deepening its engagement in Southern Africa amid mounting global economic pressures and regional development needs. Prior to this appointment, he led the East Africa Regional Development, Integration and Business Delivery Office as DG, managing a $16.6 billion portfolio across 13 countries, including Kenya.

He also previously served as Deputy DG for Southern Africa, where he spearheaded business development efforts that helped expand the regional portfolio to $8.5 billion. His contributions positioned the bank as a trusted catalyst for growth in countries such as South Africa, Namibia, Botswana, Mauritius, and Eswatini.

Dr. Mbekeani began his career at the AfDB in 2009 as Chief Trade and Regional Integration Officer. Since then, he has held multiple senior roles including Lead Regional Economist and Country Manager for Uganda. His earlier experience spans advisory and research roles with the UNDP and policy institutes in Botswana and South Africa.

Holding a PhD in International Economics from the University of California, an MPhil in Monetary Economics from the University of Glasgow, and a Bachelor’s in Economics and Statistics from the University of Malawi, Dr. Mbekeani brings a strong academic and professional pedigree to his new role.

“I am deeply grateful to President Adesina for the confidence placed in me to take on this new responsibility,” said Dr. Mbekeani. “I look forward to contributing to our team’s success in my new capacity.”

Dr. Akinwumi Adesina, President of the AfDB Group, said: “Kennedy brings extensive experience in policy dialogue and business development in Southern Africa, where he championed the delivery of transformative projects. His deep knowledge, regional networks, and leadership will strengthen the Bank’s positioning as the partner of choice in the region.”