NAIROBI, Kenya- The African Development Bank Group (AfDB) has appointed Dr. Kennedy K. Mbekeani as the new country manager for Kenya, effective October 16, 2024.
In addition to this role, Dr. Mbekeani will serve as the Director General for the East Africa Regional Development, Integration, and Business Delivery Office, further expanding his responsibilities within the bank’s leadership.
Dr. Mbekeani, a Malawian national, brings a remarkable 25 years of experience in development finance, project management, and policy advisory services, making him well-suited for this significant position.
Prior to this appointment, he was the Deputy Director General for AfDB’s Southern Africa office and previously served as the country manager for Uganda.
His expertise spans both the public and private sectors, which AfDB Group President Dr. Akinwumi Adesina emphasized as a critical asset for the bank’s operations in East Africa.
“Kennedy brings extensive experience in managing operations, policy dialogue, and diplomacy, coupled with a well-tested ability to work effectively with countries and development partners,” Dr. Adesina noted.
This move is seen as part of AfDB’s broader effort to strengthen its presence and operational impact across East Africa, especially as the region continues to experience rapid economic development.
In his new role, Dr. Mbekeani aims to drive forward the bank’s mission in East Africa, focusing on enhancing operational efficiency and delivering meaningful developmental outcomes.
His appointment comes at a time when the region is poised for significant growth, with many countries relying on AfDB’s support for infrastructure, policy reform, and financial inclusion initiatives.
“I look forward to working with the President, the Board of Directors, Senior Management, and stakeholders to enhance the Bank’s operational efficiency and effectiveness,” Dr. Mbekeani said.
Dr. Mbekeani’s academic credentials further bolster his new appointment.
He holds a Bachelor of Social Science degree from the University of Malawi, an MPhil in Monetary Economics from the University of Glasgow, and both an MA and PhD in International Economics from the University of California.
His deep knowledge of economics and finance, combined with his hands-on experience, makes him uniquely positioned to steer AfDB’s operations in the dynamic East African region.
As AfDB continues to expand its footprint across Africa, Dr. Mbekeani’s leadership will undoubtedly play a pivotal role in shaping the bank’s strategic priorities in the years ahead.
