Africa stands at a pivotal moment in its development journey. Despite immense natural resources, talent, and resilience, many African nations continue to face steep financing barriers from rising debt and high borrowing costs to limited access to global capital. The upcoming seventeenth replenishment of the African Development Fund (ADF-17) represents a crucial opportunity to unlock affordable, targeted, and transformative investments across the continent.

Since its inception in 1972, the ADF has invested $45 billion across more than 40 countries, supporting infrastructure, energy, health, and education. ADF-17 arrives at a time when global interest in reforming the international financial system is gaining traction, especially with Africa playing a more assertive role through platforms like South Africa’s G20 presidency. This high-level panel will make the case for an ambitious replenishment and broader donor participation, including new partners such as BRICS nations, Gulf states, and African contributors.

This timely discussion will move beyond technical funding issues to position ADF as a strategic lever for global stability and prosperity. It will spotlight ADF’s track record of impact and accountability, and emphasize African ownership in shaping the future of development finance.