The Abu Dhabi Fund for Development (ADFD) has emerged as a force in advancing sustainable development across Africa, investing Dh35.3 billion over the past forty years in projects spanning 42 African nations. This substantial investment underscores the UAE’s commitment to fostering economic and social progress on the continent.
In 2023, ADFD played a central role in a landmark UAE-led initiative valued at Dh16.5 billion ($4.5 billion), aimed at bolstering Africa’s clean energy infrastructure. Collaborating with the Africa50 fund, established by African governments and the African Development Bank, this initiative harnesses both public and private sector support to bridge Africa’s infrastructure funding gap.
Mohammed Saif Al Suwaidi, ADFD’s Director-General, reiterated the UAE’s dedication to aiding African nations in their developmental aspirations. Over the past decade, ADFD has spearheaded infrastructure development efforts, fostering economic diversification and unlocking the continent’s full economic potential.
ADFD’s impact is tangible across various African nations. In Togo, the Mohamed bin Zayed Solar PV Complex, financed by ADFD, powers over 158,000 households and small businesses, reducing reliance on fossil fuels. A similar initiative in Sierra Leone saw the implementation of a 6 MW solar power plant, enhancing energy stability and meeting the needs of rural communities.
Infrastructure projects funded by ADFD extend beyond energy. In Kenya, the Nuno-Modogashe Road project facilitates transportation, particularly in livestock-rich northeastern regions, while in Seychelles, renewable energy projects bolster the country’s sustainable energy production.
Moreover, ADFD’s investments address critical needs such as water supply and healthcare. In Lesotho, the Butha-Buthe water network project ensures a daily supply of clean water to thousands, mitigating waterborne diseases. In South Sudan, the Gudule General Hospital, supported by a Dh36 million UAE grant, enhances healthcare services in Juba and its environs.
