The final pledging meeting for the African Development Fund’s next three-year financing cycle (ADF-17) opened in London on Monday, marking a historic surge in commitments from African countries. The high-level gathering brought together representatives of member states and development partners to pledge financial support to the Fund, which serves as the concessional financing arm of the African Development Bank Group and supports transformative projects in the continent’s most vulnerable countries.
The African Development Fund is replenished every three years through contributions from participating countries and international development partners. These resources are crucial for investments in infrastructure, health, education, climate resilience, and economic transformation across low-income African nations, helping to address development gaps and promote sustainable growth.
The Gambia participated in the London meetings, demonstrating its commitment to regional and continental development. Led by the Honourable Minister of Finance and Economic Affairs Seedy K.M. Keita and senior Ministry officials, the country’s delegation engaged in discussions on sustainable financing, development priorities, and Africa’s collective responsibility in strengthening the Fund.
The strong response from African countries at this meeting highlights the continent’s growing ownership, partnership, and voice in shaping development financing amid global economic and climate challenges.
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