The African Development Bank has announced sealing a pact with the Project Management Institute to enhance its staff’s capacity through a structured project management training and certification programme.

According to a statement, this collaboration aims to equip an initial cohort of 200 AfDB employees with advanced project management skills, improving the efficiency and success of the Bank’s development projects across Africa.

It noted that the partnership underscores AfDB’s commitment to fostering excellence and ensuring the effective execution of its transformative initiatives.

“Robust project management is critical for navigating the complexities of the Bank’s priority areas, mitigating risks, and maximising project outcomes,” the statement read.

It further stated that the initiative aligns with AfDB’s mission to empower regional member countries to achieve sustainable development goals.

It mentioned that PMI would provide customised training tailored to AfDB’s operational needs.

It added that the programme includes PMI membership for participating employees, granting access to a global network, tools, and resources. Successful candidates will earn the prestigious Project Management Professional certification and recognised as the gold standard in the field.

The Managing Director for Sub-Saharan Africa at PMI, George Asamani, noted that the collaboration leverages PMI’s advanced methodologies, including AI-driven tools, to empower AfDB teams to handle complex projects with agility and deliver measurable outcomes.

“This partnership places AfDB at the forefront of best practices, enabling them to lead high-impact projects that strengthen economies across the continent,” Asamani said.

Under Dr. Akinwumi Adesina’s leadership, AfDB has prioritised building internal capacity to deliver transformative projects.

“This initiative reflects his vision for equipping the Bank’s professionals with the skills necessary to drive Africa’s sustainable development,” it noted.

It further stated that “By investing in project management capabilities, AfDB seeks to address varying skill levels across markets, reduce project delays, mitigate risks, and set a benchmark for development projects on the continent”.

“The partnership with PMI represents a strategic step towards achieving a higher standard of execution, amplifying the impact of AfDB’s mission to drive progress and empower African nations.”