Djibouti and the African Development Bank (AfDB) have renewed their partnership to support infrastructure and economic development in the country.
The AfDB delegation, led by Dr. Khaled Sherif, visited Djibouti from 4 to 11 April 2025.
The team held talks with senior government officials, including Prime Minister Abdoulkader Kamil Mohamed and Minister Ilyas Moussa Dawaleh.
They discussed plans to expand road networks, build hospitals, and provide clean drinking water in rural areas.
They also explored ways to improve education and curb rural-to-urban migration.
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Focus on Djibouti’s Vision 2035
Prime Minister Mohamed said, “Infrastructure development is at the heart of Djibouti’s ‘Vision 2035’ strategy.”
He added, “Our aim is to foster inclusive and balanced growth, ensuring that all communities benefit and that progress is shared by all.”
Dr. Sherif praised the country’s development plan. He said, “Vision 2035 priorities are fully aligned with the mission of the Bank. We are committed to continue to explore opportunities to strengthen Djibouti’s engagement with the Bank to achieve its development objectives.”
The delegation held several meetings with Minister Dawaleh to set strategic goals.
These included transport, urban planning, and electrification, especially in the country’s interior.
“These infrastructures are not only levers for growth, but also tools for regional integration,” said Minister Dawaleh.
He emphasized that they are key to reducing territorial inequalities.
Progress and Accountability
Dr. Sherif acknowledged progress in major projects like the Port of Doraleh and new free trade zones.
He urged for more transparency and better monitoring of projects to improve financial management.
The AfDB team met with education and finance stakeholders to explore future cooperation.
They visited the University of Djibouti, the Red Sea Bank, and the Djibouti Social Development Agency.
They also discussed how to improve aid coordination and delivery across all regions of the country.
Dr. Sherif expressed strong support for education and innovation initiatives during his speech at the university.
The mission happened ahead of the Bank’s 60th Annual Meetings set for 26-30 May 2025 in Abidjan.
This summit will shape Africa’s development direction and highlight the need for strong international partnerships.