A high-level delegation from the Republic of Senegal, led by Dr. Mabouba Diagne, Minister of Agriculture, Food Sovereignty, and Livestock, recently visited Liberia to seek the government’s support for the candidacy of Amadou Hott as President of the African Development Bank (AfDB).
The Senegalese delegation was warmly received by H.E. Sara Beysolow Nyanti, Minister of Foreign Affairs, and also held engagements with Jeremiah K. Koung, Vice President of Liberia, and Augustine Kpehe Ngafuan, Minister of Finance and Development Planning.
During the meeting, Dr. Diagne underscored the strong historical and diplomatic ties between Liberia and Senegal, emphasizing the shared commitment to fostering regional cooperation and economic development within the framework of the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS).
“Liberia and Senegal share a deep and enduring bond in the sub-region. It is essential that we continue to support one another in endeavors that advance Africa’s development,” Dr. Diagne remarked.
Dr. Diagne expressed appreciation for Liberia’s hospitality and its commitment to strengthening bilateral relations. “This visit reinforces the partnership between Senegal and Liberia. We are grateful for the discussions held, and look forward to Liberia’s support for Mr. Hott’s candidacy, which we believe will further Africa’s collective development goals,” he added.
As part of the delegation, Amadou Hott presented his vision for the African Development Bank. A seasoned investment banker with extensive experience across the continent, Hott highlighted the need to bolster the AfDB’s financial capacity to drive investments in the private sector—a critical engine for economic growth in Africa.
“My vision is to strengthen the African Development Bank’s financial foundation to enable greater investment in private-sector initiatives, which are pivotal to Africa’s economic transformation,” Hott stated.
He further emphasized leveraging the AfDB’s resources to expose African investment opportunities to international markets, attract global partnerships, and promote economic inclusion. “With my expertise, I aim to position the AfDB as a catalyst for sustainable development and inclusive growth across the continent, particularly in low-income countries,” he added.
Speaking on behalf of His Excellency President Joseph Nyuma Boakai, Sr., Foreign Minister Nyanti reaffirmed Liberia’s dedication to strengthening its longstanding relationship with Senegal and advancing mutual interests within Africa.
“Liberia and Senegal enjoy a strong partnership built on mutual respect and collaboration. We welcome this opportunity to explore initiatives that will benefit our nations and the broader African continent,” Foreign Minister Nyanti noted.
Responding to the delegation’s appeal, Foreign Minister Nyanti acknowledged Hott’s exceptional qualifications and vision. She assured the Senegalese delegation that Liberia’s decision regarding his candidacy would be communicated following consultations.
Additionally, Foreign Minister Nyanti used the occasion to solicit Senegal’s support for Liberia’s bid for a non-permanent seat on the United Nations Security Council.
“In the spirit of partnership and Pan African solidarity, we kindly seek Senegal’s support for Liberia’s campaign for a seat on the United Nations Security Council. Together, we can amplify Africa’s voice on the global stage,” she remarked.
The visit by the Senegalese delegation highlights the importance of collaboration among African nations to achieve shared development objectives. Liberia and Senegal have consistently demonstrated their commitment to advancing regional integration and promoting economic and social progress through platforms like ECOWAS and the African Union.
