allafrica.com
AfDB's Decade of Growth Under Adesina: Increased Capital, Global Influence, and a Call for Fairer Taxation
Akinwumi Adesina, AfDB president, reflects on a decade of achievements, including a tripling of the bank's capital to $318 billion, increased African influence in global finance, and the launch of the Africa Investment Forum, while advocating for fairer tax practices by multinational companies in Africa.
- What is the most significant achievement of the AfDB under Adesina's leadership, and what are its implications for Africa's global standing?
- After a decade, the African Development Bank (AfDB), under Akinwumi Adesina's leadership, has seen its capital surge from $93 billion to $318 billion, becoming a globally recognized and transparent institution. This growth coincides with Africa's increasing global influence on issues like climate change and food security.
- How has the Africa Investment Forum contributed to addressing Africa's development challenges, and what factors influenced its investment levels in 2024?
- Adesina highlights the AfDB's amplified voice in global finance, actively participating in G20 meetings and shaping global discussions around African priorities. The Africa Investment Forum (AIF), founded by Adesina, showcases African opportunities, attracting $35 billion in investments in 2023, despite global economic challenges in 2024.
- What are the long-term implications of the AfDB's increased focus on private sector collaboration, and what challenges remain in ensuring fair tax practices for multinational companies in Africa?
- The AfDB's new strategy prioritizes collaboration with the private sector to address Africa's development challenges, tripling non-sovereign operations. This includes initiatives like Africa 50 and the Green Infrastructure Alliance, along with advocating for fairer tax practices by multinational companies operating in Africa to ensure that resources benefit the continent.
Cognitive Concepts
Framing Bias
The narrative is structured to highlight Adesina's achievements and the AfDB's positive impact. The headline emphasizes the bank's amplified voice, setting a positive tone. The interview format allows Adesina to control the narrative, minimizing critical perspectives. The focus on quantitative successes (increased capital, global recognition) reinforces a positive framing.
Language Bias
The language used is largely positive and celebratory, emphasizing successes and growth. Phrases like "global game-changer," "premier multilateral financial institution," and "most transparent financial institution globally" are loaded with positive connotations. While neutral alternatives are possible, the overall tone is overwhelmingly positive, potentially influencing reader perception.
Bias by Omission
The interview focuses heavily on Adesina's accomplishments and the AfDB's successes. There is limited discussion of criticisms or challenges faced by the bank, or alternative perspectives on its impact. While acknowledging global challenges, the article doesn't delve into specific criticisms of the AfDB's approach to addressing them. Omission of dissenting voices or negative impacts limits a fully informed perspective.
False Dichotomy
The interview presents a largely positive view of the AfDB's impact, occasionally framing challenges as opportunities. While acknowledging global economic headwinds impacting investment, it doesn't explore alternative solutions or strategies beyond the AfDB's approach. The portrayal of the relationship between tax incentives and economic health is simplified, lacking nuance.
Gender Bias
The interview features only Adesina, a man. There is no analysis of gender representation within the AfDB or its impact on African development. The lack of diverse voices limits the assessment of gender bias.
Sustainable Development Goals
The AfDB, under Adesina's leadership, has significantly increased its capital, improved transparency, and focused on accelerating development in Africa. This has led to increased investment and job creation, contributing to economic growth. The emphasis on private sector development and initiatives like the Africa Investment Forum further boosts economic activity and employment opportunities.