Chad officially submitted the candidacy of Abbas Mahamat Tolli for the presidency of the African Development Bank (AfDB), during a ceremony in Abidjan, on December 13, 2024. With his experience in the high spheres of African finance, the former Governor of the BEAC appears as a strong candidate to lead this strategic institution.
In Abidjan, Côte d’Ivoire, a high-ranking delegation led by Fatima Haram Acyl, Minister Delegate for Finance, marked a key milestone for Chadian diplomacy by officially submitting the candidacy of Abbas Mahamat Tolli for the presidency of the AfDB. The delegation, including Mahamat Assouyouti Abakar, Advisor to the Head of State and Campaign Director, was welcomed by AfDB Secretary General Vincent Nmehielle. In an atmosphere marked by solemnity and cordiality, this step symbolizes Chad’s aspirations to play a leading role in the economic development of the African continent.
Former Governor of the Bank of Central African States (BEAC), Abbas Mahamat Tolli enjoys a reputation as a rigorous economist and a savvy manager. Under his leadership, the BEAC underwent structural reforms aimed at consolidating the financial stability of the sub-region. His career also includes strategic positions such as Minister of Finance of Chad and Chief of Staff of the Head of State. His experience and integrity, praised by his peers, give him indisputable legitimacy to run for the presidency of the AfDB.
During the ceremony, Fatima Haram Acyl recalled the importance of this candidacy for Chad: “Mr. Tolli embodies a strategic vision and an unwavering commitment to the economic development of the continent. He has the full support of the Chadian authorities, first and foremost that of the Marshal of Chad, Mahamat Idriss Deby Itno, and of the entire Chadian people.” She also called on AfDB member states to support this candidacy, arguing that Mr. Tolli’s leadership could be decisive in establishing inclusive and sustainable growth in Africa.
By proposing the candidacy of Abbas Mahamat Tolli, Chad affirms its desire to actively participate in the construction of a prosperous Africa. With this initiative, the country is part of a dynamic of regional and continental collaboration, placing inclusive and sustainable development at the heart of its priorities. The next steps of the selection process will determine whether this candidacy will succeed in rallying a broad consensus among the Member States, but already, Chad has sent a strong message: that of its commitment to visionary African leadership.
