South Africa has formally requested Kenya’s support for Bajabulile Swazi Tshabalala, the sole female contender in the upcoming African Development Bank (AfDB) presidential election, scheduled for May.
The appeal was made during a diplomatic meeting over the weekend, where South Africa’s Special Envoy Ayanda Dlodlo, accompanied by Tshabalala, met with Kenya’s Prime Cabinet Secretary, Musalia Mudavadi. The visit is part of a wider lobbying campaign across the continent to rally support ahead of the decisive vote.
Tshabalala, who currently serves as the Senior Vice President of the AfDB, is positioning herself as a continuity candidate with a forward-looking agenda focused on innovation, growth, and inclusive development.
“Africa’s future hinges on three pillars: continuity to build on progress, innovation to accelerate growth, and inclusion to leave no one behind,” said Tshabalala, presenting her vision for the AfDB’s next chapter.
A Trailblazer for Leadership in African Finance
If elected, Tshabalala would become the first woman in the AfDB’s 60-year history to hold the presidency. Her candidacy has been officially backed by the South African government since August 2023, and is gaining momentum among member states seeking experienced and transformative leadership.
Tshabalala joined the AfDB in 2018 as Vice President for Finance and Chief Financial Officer, and was later promoted to Senior Vice President in 2021. Her deep institutional knowledge and financial acumen are key pillars of her leadership campaign.
“Leadership is not about gender—it’s about vision, competence, and the courage to transform Africa’s financial future,” she emphasized.
Her leadership philosophy centers on empowering African economies, strengthening regional integration, and driving inclusive financial strategies to uplift marginalized communities.
Kenya’s Influence Could Be Crucial
As a significant player within the AfDB and a key economy in East Africa, Kenya’s support is likely to play a crucial role in determining the election outcome. The meeting with Musalia Mudavadi signals potential alignment between the two countries on leadership and strategic priorities for the continent’s top financial institution.
Tshabalala’s candidacy reflects growing calls for gender representation and institutional continuity in high-level African leadership. Her track record, strategic vision, and continental backing could mark a historic shift in the AfDB’s leadership landscape.
