Djibouti and the African Development Bank have renewed their development partnership following a consultation mission to the country led by the institution's Executive Director for Egypt and Djibouti, Dr. Khaled Sherif. The mission, which ran from 4 to 11 April, took in meetings with representatives of the Djiboutian government to discuss advancing development and economic priorities and enhancing cooperation.
The Bank delegation held a courtesy meeting with Prime Minister Abdoulkader Kamil Mohamed to discuss a nationwide road network initiative, the need for more hospitals and drinking water wells, and ways to strengthen education in the country's interior.
"Infrastructure development is at the heart of Djibouti's 'Vision 2035' strategy," the Prime Minister said, referring to the country's national plan to significantly raise the average standard of living through GDP per capita growth to 10% annually. "Our aim is to foster inclusive and balanced growth, ensuring that all communities benefit and that progress is shared by all."
He said the country was working to advance development across the entire country to curb migration from rural to urban areas.
Praising the strategic plan, Executive Director Sherif said, "Vision 2035 priorities are fully aligned with the mission of the Bank, and we are committed to continue to explore opportunities to strengthen Djibouti's engagement with the Bank to achieve its development objectives."
Sherif and the Bank delegation also held several meetings with Hon. Ilyas Moussa Dawaleh, Minister of Economy and Finance and Bank Governor, to discuss strategic priorities, including transportation, electrification and urban infrastructure, particularly in the country's interior. "These infrastructures are not only levers for growth, but also tools for regional integration," emphasized the Bank Governor, underlining their role in reducing territorial disparities.
Sherif praised the country's tangible progress on a number of projects, including the Port of Doraleh and free trade zones. Sherif also stressed the need for transparency in governance and better project monitoring to enhance fiscal management.
During the mission, the Executive Director seized the opportunity to explore avenues for future collaboration and to express support for initiatives to enhance education.
While in country, the Bank delegation also met with representatives of the University of Djibouti, Djibouti Social Development Agency, the President of the Red Sea Bank for Commerce, and other stakeholders to discuss strengthening collaboration and coordination in aid delivery across the country.
The mission took place ahead of the Bank's 60th Annual Meetings, to be held 26-30 May 2025 in Abidjan. For Djibouti, this summit serves as a key convening event to guide Africa's development policies and coincides with a pivotal phase in which international partnerships play a decisive role in access to financing.
