Support Grows for Zambian Candidate in African Development Bank Leadership

Escalating Support for Sam Maimbo's African Development Bank Candidacy

This week, President Emmerson Mnangagwa of Zimbabwe held a significant meeting with Zambia's former Vice President and Special Envoy, Enoch Kavindele, to discuss the Southern African Development Community's (SADC) preferred candidate for the Presidency of the African Development Bank (AfDB). This meeting marks a pivotal moment for Sam Maimbo, a candidate who has garnered substantial support within the region.

Special Envoy Kavindele expressed his excitement about the momentum surrounding Maimbo's candidacy. He stated, "I am elated to witness the growing success and momentum of Sam Maimbo's candidacy to become the next President of the African Development Bank." This enthusiasm reflects not only buoyant optimism for Maimbo's qualifications but also a collective regional desire for effective leadership that addresses Africa's pressing development challenges.

Kavindele acknowledged the invaluable support from both SADC and the Common Market for Eastern and Southern Africa (COMESA), highlighting a strong consensus behind Maimbo's candidacy. Maimbo's extensive experience of over 30 years in development work was emphasized, showcasing his ability to drive outcomes and foster transformative change across the continent. According to Kavindele, Maimbo is not just a candidate; he embodies the type of leader the AfDB needs—focused, hands-on, and decisive.

Kavindele's remarks also touched on the historical context of regional support in Southern Africa, citing Lusaka's vital role during the anti-Apartheid movement. This historical bond underlines the commitment of Southern African countries to support each other, especially during pivotal moments like the selection of a regional leader for an influential institution such as the AfDB.

However, Kavindele also voiced concern about the lack of backing from South Africa for Maimbo, given the longstanding relationship between the two countries. He emphasized that the economic development challenges facing Africa require collective action, urging South Africa and other nations to rally behind what he described as the best candidate for the job.

"This is not the time or place for a government to act with narrow self-interest," he remarked. He challenged the region to prioritize the continent's needs and the interests of the AfDB over national agendas. As Maimbo's candidacy continues to gain traction, it becomes more critical for all stakeholders in Southern Africa to come together and contribute to a unified front.

In closing, Kavindele expressed his profound gratitude to Maimbo for his lifelong commitment to serving the continent. He is optimistic about Maimbo's potential impact as President of the AfDB, which is positioned as a crucial player in Africa's developmental agenda. This upcoming leadership decision is a reflection of the changing dynamics in African politics, showcasing how collaborative support can lead to monumental advancements in governance and development.

As discussions continue, it remains to be seen how these sentiments will evolve as election day for the AfDB presidency approaches, but the collective support for Sam Maimbo signifies a hopeful turning point for effective leadership in Africa.