African Development Bank Breaks Ground on Sustainable Permanent Office in Zambia, Reinforcing Five-Decade Partnership

The African Development Bank (AfDB) has commenced construction of its new permanent country office in Lusaka, Zambia, in a milestone in 54 years of partnership with the nation. The move is a demonstration of the Bank’s continued support for the socio-economic development of Zambia and regional integration in Africa.

Ever since the opening of a small temporary office in 2007 with four staff members, AfDB has grown its presence in Zambia considerably, with 20 staff members working presently. Over-all investments in the nation amount to $2.7 billion, with nearly $1 billion presently financing transport, agriculture-related, water, sanitation, and energy-related projects.

The event was honoured by the presence of Zambia’s Minister of Finance and National Planning, Dr. Situmbeko Musokotwane, AfDB Vice President for Regional Development, Integration and Business Delivery, Nnenna Nwabufo, and government, diplomatic missions, development partners, and private sector players.

The Lusaka new office is built with contemporary sustainability and well-being aspects, such as energy-efficient systems, wastewater recycling, green spaces, and facilities that enhance employees’ well-being. The office, to be completed by 2027, will generate jobs and stimulate local businesses in construction and operation.

Dr. Musokotwane emphasized the importance of this achievement as a “strong vote of confidence in Zambia’s government, people, and future.” He also emphasized the critical role of the African Development Bank to propel Zambia’s development agenda, particularly through investments in climate-resilient infrastructure and inclusive industrialization in alignment with the country’s long-term vision.

He was proudest of the Bank’s transformational projects like the Kazungula Bridge, which has greatly enhanced cross-border trade by reducing travel time from 2.5 days to half a day.
Some of the other major programs include the Integrated Small Towns Water and Sanitation project, the Lusaka Sanitation Programme, the Skills Development and Entrepreneurship Project, and the Multi-Purpose Small Dams Project..

Amidst regional challenges, Musokotwane urged the Bank to step up support for drought recovery efforts to strengthen economic resilience across Southern Africa, which continues to recover from severe droughts in 2023-2024

Nnenna Nwabufo expressed her appreciation to the Zambian government for providing prime land for the new office, reaffirming the Bank’s steady commitment: “This new office is a testament to our strong partnership with Zambia. The African Development Bank is here to stay.”

She also announced a $250 million pledge toward the Lobito Corridor Development Project, a key infrastructure initiative connecting Angola’s Lobito port with Zambia’s Copperbelt through Angola and the Democratic Republic of Congo. The project involves building and rehabilitating railways and encouraging public-private partnerships to enhance regional trade and connectivity.

The Bank’s efforts have already begun to show positive results: access to water in Zambia has increased from 69% to 72%, sanitation coverage has grown from 50% to 58%, and agricultural output has surged—maize production up by over 1 million tonnes, and aquaculture productivity has nearly quadrupled. In addition, social sector programs have improved SME competitiveness, created jobs, and established industrial yards in major towns.

Olaniyi Durowoju, AfDB Manager for Zambia, referred to the new office as “a state-of-the-art hub for innovation, collaboration, and partnership that will enable the Bank to better serve the development ambitions of Zambia.”

This continued presence is a mark of a new era of the African Development Bank’s cooperation with Zambia, attesting to its status as an engine of sustainable development and African regional integration.

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