The African Development Bank (AfDB) is proposing a finance package of USD 150 million to KCB Bank Kenya Limited, which includes USD 100 million in subordinated debt and a USD 50 million transaction guarantee. This facility aims to strengthen KCB's capital base, enabling it to act as a reliable financial intermediary in strategic sectors and support its goal of allocating 25% of its loan portfolio to green projects by 2031. The transaction guarantee will provide up to 100% coverage for confirming banks against non-payment risks related to trade finance instruments issued by KCB. KCB, a subsidiary of KCB Group PLC, is the second largest banking group in the region, operating in multiple countries including Kenya, Uganda, and Tanzania. The financing plan involves mobilizing tier II capital to enhance KCB's balance sheet and trade finance portfolio, with a target growth of 15% annually over the next three years. The implementation of the facility will be governed by agreements that outline fund usage, responsibilities, and compliance with environmental and social standards. This initiative aligns with AfDB's strategic priorities and Kenya's long-term development goals, contributing to inclusive and green growth. The facility is expected to generate positive development outcomes, including job creation and increased tax revenue, while also supporting climate mitigation efforts. KCB's commitment to gender equality is evident through its initiatives aimed at supporting women entrepreneurs, and it has established an environmental and social management system to ensure compliance with best practices. The project is designed to complement existing funding efforts from other multilateral lenders and is not intended for on-lending purposes. Overall, the facility aims to stimulate economic growth, alleviate poverty, and promote sustainable development in Kenya.

The CIF Nature, People and Climate Investment Program is seeking expressions of interest from Zambia, along with Malawi, Mozambique, Namibia, and Tanzania, for funding to support initiatives that align with nature-based solutions to climate change. The countries involved are eligible for Official Development Assistance and have active lending programs with partner multilateral development banks. The overarching vision is to enhance environmental integrity in the Zambezi basin, focusing on sustainable management of natural resources, improving agricultural productivity, and protecting ecosystems while supporting local livelihoods. These nations are committed to regional cooperation through frameworks like the Zambezi Watercourse Commission and the Southern African Development Community, which promote sustainable economic growth and resource management. Each country has established policies and strategies to support climate resilience and biodiversity conservation, such as Malawi's National Climate Change Policy and Mozambique's Nature Conservation Law. The program aims to leverage these existing frameworks to implement cross-sectoral solutions that benefit both the environment and local communities, while also adhering to broader continental agreements like the African Union's Agenda 2063 and the Sharm el-Sheikh Declaration on biodiversity.

The Axian Telecom Project involves a senior corporate loan of USD 160 million aimed at enhancing digital access and financial inclusion across nine African countries. This funding will facilitate the modernization and expansion of Axian Telecom's network infrastructure, particularly focusing on the deployment of 4G and 5G technologies. The project aligns with the African Development Bank's Ten Year Strategy and its Hi-5s, which emphasize key development goals. The Bank's involvement is justified by its ability to provide longer-term financing than typical commercial entities, thereby supporting Axian's commitment to improving outcomes for women and promoting gender inclusivity and youth empowerment. Expected development outcomes include enhanced access to reliable telecommunication services and internet connectivity, fostering a conducive business environment, and supporting digital and financial inclusion for micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs). The project has been classified as Category 2 Moderate Risk under the Bank's Integrated Safeguards System, and it is also categorized as GEN II on the Gender Marker System, indicating its contribution to gender equality through increased digital and financial inclusion for women. The project is set for appraisal on September 11, 2024, with an estimated approval date of December 9, 2024. Compliance with environmental and social safeguards has been confirmed, ensuring that the project meets the necessary requirements for approval.

The Urban Planning and Infrastructure Development in the Water and Sanitation Sector in Benghazi project aims to enhance water security in Benghazi, Libya, by fostering climate-resilient infrastructure and improved urban planning. The project is structured to address key issues in the water and sanitation sector, with a focus on creating an inclusive and sustainable urban water masterplan that will benefit approximately 850,000 residents. The initiative includes the development of a climate-resilient urban masterplan, which is expected to significantly increase the resilience of the city's drinking water supply system, particularly through the Manmade River Project. Additionally, the project promotes a circular economy in the water and sanitation sector, with plans to reuse water within the municipality. The project encompasses various components, including the preparation of technical feasibility studies and investment plans for climate-resilient infrastructure, with a target of designing and preparing tender documents for investments totaling 100 million EUR. The implementation of this project is supported by a range of stakeholders, including the African Development Bank and various local and international organizations, ensuring compliance with environmental and social standards while promoting gender equality and job creation. Overall, the project is positioned as a critical step towards sustainable urban development in Benghazi, addressing both immediate needs and long-term resilience against climate change.

The Project Completion Report (PCR) for the Project in Support of the Agricultural Sector and in Response to the Food Crisis in Chad outlines the project's objectives, financing, and performance assessment. The project, initiated in response to the food crisis exacerbated by the Ukrainian conflict, aimed to enhance food security and resilience among vulnerable households by increasing agricultural production. The total financing amounted to 4,200,000 UA, with a significant portion allocated to agricultural inputs for approximately 18,000 small-scale producers in targeted regions. The project was deemed relevant, aligning with the Bank's strategies for inclusive growth and agricultural transformation, and was integrated into national plans for rural investment and food crisis response. The project design effectively utilized existing systems, such as the E-voucher platform from a World Bank initiative, ensuring timely delivery of agricultural inputs. However, challenges were noted, including delays in input delivery and issues with beneficiary registration, which highlighted the need for local involvement in future projects. The project achieved notable outcomes, with an increase in the number of beneficiaries and improvements in agricultural practices, although the effectiveness was impacted by climate-related challenges. Overall, the project was rated satisfactory in relevance and effectiveness, with lessons learned emphasizing the importance of local engagement and adequate project duration for significant impact.

The project titled Technical preparatory studies for the implementation of a sustainable District Heating and Cooling (DHC) system at the Bab Saadoun Medical Complex in Tunis is being implemented by the African Development Bank (AfDB) in collaboration with the Agence Nationale de Maitrise de l'Energie (ANME), a public non-profit organization focused on energy management and the promotion of renewable energies. Tunisia is currently facing economic challenges exacerbated by the COVID-19 pandemic, which has hindered growth and increased unemployment. The government has adopted a COVID-19 National Response Strategy with a budget of TND 3 billion aimed at strengthening the health sector, supporting small and medium enterprises (SMEs), and promoting investment and job creation. In terms of energy, Tunisia's energy transition strategy for 2030 aims to enhance energy efficiency and increase the share of renewable energy, targeting a 30% reduction in energy demand and a 30% increase in renewable energy in the electricity mix. The country faces a growing energy deficit, with a dependency rate of 41% as of 2019, and significant seasonal variations in electricity consumption, particularly during summer months due to increased air conditioning demand. The pandemic has further complicated energy efficiency efforts, particularly in healthcare facilities, where increased ventilation needs have led to higher energy consumption. To address these challenges, the Ministry of Health, with ANME's assistance, plans to develop a sustainable DHC infrastructure in urban areas, starting with the Bab Saadoun Medical Complex, which consists of eight health facilities. This initiative aims to optimize energy use, reduce environmental impacts, and improve the efficiency of heating and cooling systems. The project seeks technical assistance from the Climate Investment Fund (CIF) through the AfDB to support the comprehensive technical and analytical work necessary for the development and operation of the Bab Saadoun DHC infrastructure project, ultimately contributing to Tunisia's energy transition goals.

The publication titled "Methodological Needs Assessment for the Tracking of Adaptation Outcomes and Impacts" is authored by Sherri Ombuya, Laila Darouich, Marjorie Menard, and Axel Michaelowa, with guidance from the African Development Bank's Climate Change and Green Growth Department. It emphasizes the importance of tracking adaptation outcomes and impacts in the context of climate change. The study outlines the background and objectives of the research, focusing on the challenges of monitoring and evaluation (M&E) within the adaptation policy cycle. It discusses existing frameworks and methodologies for tracking adaptation, including those under the Paris Agreement and various multilateral climate funds such as the Green Climate Fund and the Adaptation Fund. The text identifies significant gaps in current methodologies for quantifying adaptation benefits and offers recommendations for improving these frameworks. The findings and conclusions presented are those of the authors and do not necessarily reflect the views of the African Development Bank or its affiliates. The publication serves as a comprehensive resource for understanding the complexities of adaptation tracking and the need for robust methodologies in this field.

The African Development Bank Group has released an updated Country Brief for Sudan covering the period from 2017 to 2024, with an extension to December 2026. The document outlines the roles of various task managers and team members involved in the implementation and monitoring of the country's development strategies. It provides a comprehensive overview of the country context, including political, economic, and social developments, as well as the sector context and cross-cutting themes that influence Sudan's growth. The brief highlights the results achieved during the initial implementation phase, emphasizing contributions to the High 5 priorities and alignment with international development principles such as those from Paris, Busan, and Accra. The document also reviews the country portfolio performance and outlines lessons learned, which inform the strategy for the extension period of 2025-2026. This strategy includes a rationale for selectivity, objectives, and priorities for Bank support, as well as indicative lending and non-lending programs. It addresses potential risks and outlines mitigation measures to ensure effective implementation. The brief concludes with recommendations for future actions and includes several annexes that provide detailed progress reports, a revised results measurement framework, and a country fiduciary risk assessment, among other critical data. Overall, the document serves as a vital resource for understanding the ongoing development efforts and strategic direction for Sudan's future.

The project proposed by the African Development Bank (AfDB) involves a Trade Finance Facility in partnership with Bank of Africa (BOA), consisting of a Trade Finance Line of Credit (TFLOC) of EUR 20 million and an unfunded Risk Participation Agreement (RPA) of USD 50 million. The TFLOC aims to support import-export activities of SMEs and local corporations in key sectors such as agriculture, automotive, and health, with a tenor of three and a half years, including a three-year grace period. The RPA is a risk-sharing scheme that allows both parties to share default risks on eligible trade transactions, with a maximum coverage of 50%, potentially raised to 75% for transactions in low-income or transition states. BOA, a leading banking group in Africa, aims to enhance trade finance activities and support SMEs, which constitute 93% of Moroccan businesses and employ over 46% of the workforce. The project is expected to catalyze trade flows of approximately USD 293 million, contributing to economic recovery in Morocco and aligning with AfDB's strategic priorities, including trade promotion and support for SMEs. The project also emphasizes gender equality by facilitating access to trade finance for local female businesses. The AfDB's involvement is justified by the need for increased financial support for African SMEs, particularly in light of challenges in accessing trade finance exacerbated by regulatory requirements. The project is categorized as moderate risk and includes environmental and social safeguards, reflecting BOA's commitment to sustainability and gender empowerment.

The Implementation Progress and Results Report for the LAPSSET - Lamu Port South Sudan Ethiopia project, dated February 21, 2025, outlines the project's financing, progress, and challenges. The project, aimed at developing Lamu Port to enhance transport links for imports and exports from Ethiopia, Kenya, and South Sudan, is categorized as Category 1 environmentally. The total financing amounts to USD 1,936,560, with a loan of USD 1,428,067.87 approved. However, the project faces significant delays primarily due to outstanding payments to consultants, which have suspended key components of the project. To address this, USD 64,938.85 is needed, and if not provided by the Bank, the Government of Kenya must supply the funds by January 2024 to resume activities. The report indicates that while some outcomes are on track, such as the development of financial models for port operations, others, like acquiring funding and establishing operational frameworks, are not progressing as expected. The overall project performance is rated as unsatisfactory due to these delays and issues, with corrective actions required to meet the project's objectives by the new closing date of December 31, 2025.

The Project Completion Report for the Integrated Public Financial Management Reform Project: Phase II in Liberia outlines the project's objectives, financing, and performance assessment. The project aimed to strengthen transparency and accountability in public financial management and enhance revenue mobilization from the natural resources sector, aligning with Liberia's development agenda and various strategic plans. The total financing for the project amounted to 6,263,000 UAC, sourced from the African Development Fund and the Fragile States Facility. The project experienced delays, leading to an extension of the closing date to 28 December 2023, primarily due to the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic and challenges in project implementation capacity. The project was rated as relevant in its objectives and design, addressing deficiencies identified in the 2016 Public Expenditure and Financial Management (PEFA) assessment. It focused on capacity building for institutions involved in public financial management, aiming to consolidate gains from the previous phase of the project. The project design included a comprehensive results framework with ambitious targets, although it faced challenges in achieving these within the limited timeframe. The implementation involved a collaborative approach with various stakeholders, including civil society organizations, to enhance accountability and governance. Overall, the project was deemed satisfactory in its relevance and design, contributing to the ongoing efforts to improve public financial management in Liberia.

Le rapport sur l'état d'exécution et les résultats du projet Desert to Power, spécifiquement le projet Yeleen de développement de centrales solaires et de réseaux électriques au Burkina Faso, présente une analyse détaillée des progrès réalisés jusqu'à la date du rapport, le 24 février 2025. Le projet, financé par plusieurs sources, dont l'AFD et l'UE, a un budget total de 136.690.000 EUR. Malgré des retards dus à des difficultés d'exécution, deux centrales solaires ont été mises en service, à Ouaga en juin 2024 et à Gaoua en septembre 2024, tandis que la centrale de Dori est attendue pour le deuxième trimestre 2025. Le rapport souligne que l'objectif de développement, qui vise à accroître l'accès à l'électricité durable et à améliorer les conditions de vie, sera atteint à la fin du projet. L'état d'exécution est jugé satisfaisant avec une notation de 2,8 sur 4, et les taux d'engagement et de décaissement sont également considérés comme satisfaisants. Cependant, des efforts supplémentaires sont nécessaires pour accélérer les audits et la mise en œuvre des réseaux de distribution. Le rapport met en lumière les défis liés à la situation sociopolitique et sécuritaire, qui affectent l'accessibilité de certaines zones. Des mesures correctives ont été mises en place, comme la substitution de localités inaccessibles par d'autres plus sécurisées pour éviter des retards dans l'exécution des contrats. Le projet a également pour but d'améliorer le mix énergétique national, avec une capacité installée de production électrique de source solaire qui a considérablement augmenté. Les travaux d'électrification de 66 localités sont en cours, avec des marchés attribués et des ordres de service émis pour le démarrage des travaux. Malgré des difficultés, notamment à Diapaga, où la construction de la centrale est à l'arrêt, des discussions sont en cours pour redéployer le projet. Le rapport conclut que, bien que des défis subsistent, les résultats globaux sont jugés satisfaisants et des mesures sont prises pour assurer la continuité et l'efficacité des travaux.

The Guinea-Bissau Country Strategy Paper (CSP) 2022-2026 Mid-Term Review, prepared by the African Development Bank (AfDB), outlines the current political, economic, and social contexts of Guinea-Bissau, assessing the implementation and outcomes of the CSP thus far. The review highlights the political instability and economic challenges faced by the country, including issues related to governance and development. It emphasizes the importance of aid coordination among development partners and identifies the country's strengths, opportunities, weaknesses, and challenges. The report evaluates the Bank Group's resources and the progress made towards achieving the CSP's objectives, including contributions to the Bank's High 5s initiatives. It also reviews the performance of the country portfolio, suggesting a Country Portfolio Performance Improvement Plan to enhance outcomes. Key lessons learned at mid-term are discussed, providing insights for both the Bank Group and the government. Looking ahead, the report outlines the strategy rationale, objectives, and priority areas for the remaining CSP period, detailing the expected outcomes and financing arrangements. It also addresses risks and mitigation measures, concluding with recommendations for future actions. The document includes various annexes that provide additional data and frameworks related to the CSP's implementation and performance indicators, ensuring a comprehensive understanding of Guinea-Bissau's development landscape.

The PROJECT COMPLETION REPORT for the CYCLONE FREDDY EMERGENCY RESPONSE AID outlines the essential details and performance assessment of the project aimed at assisting Madagascar following the devastating effects of Cyclone Freddy. The project, initiated with a financing plan of USD 500,000 from the Special Relief Fund, was designed to provide immediate humanitarian aid to the affected populations, particularly in the South-Western Region where poverty levels are high. The Bank allocated these funds to the World Food Programme (WFP), which was tasked with delivering food assistance to approximately 32,619 individuals over a two-month period. The report highlights the relevance of the project, noting that Madagascar frequently faces natural disasters that severely impact rural livelihoods. The Government of Madagascar sought assistance due to the extensive damage caused by the cyclone, which resulted in fatalities and significant destruction of infrastructure. The project was assessed as highly relevant, with a rating of 4, indicating its alignment with the urgent needs of the affected communities. In terms of effectiveness, the project aimed to alleviate suffering and improve the nutritional status of those impacted by the cyclone. The report indicates that the project successfully provided adequate food assistance to a significant number of affected individuals, achieving a target of 90,000 people receiving aid. However, there were challenges in food distribution, particularly with rice, where the quantity purchased fell short due to rising prices. The efficiency of the project was rated positively, with timely disbursement of resources and adherence to the planned schedule. The project did not require an extension, and the implementation was deemed satisfactory despite some discrepancies in food quantities due to market conditions. Regarding sustainability, the partnership between the Malagasy Government and WFP was highlighted as a key factor in ensuring the long-term viability of the operation. The financial management procedures of WFP were utilized effectively, and a tripartite agreement facilitated the coordination of efforts among the involved parties. Overall, the report concludes that the intervention was successful in supporting the Malagasy Government's response to Cyclone Freddy, with significant achievements in food distribution and a strong framework for future collaboration between the government and WFP.

The MKONDVO - NGWAVUMA AUGMENTATION SCHEME report, dated 04.03.2025, outlines the project's progress and results, focusing on feasibility studies and detailed designs in Eswatini's agricultural sector. The project, financed with a total of 2,200,000.00 UAC, has seen significant disbursement, with 1,190,716.08 UAC disbursed to date. The Government of Eswatini is both the borrower and executing agency, with the Ministry of Agriculture overseeing implementation. The project has achieved a highly satisfactory rating for both development objectives and implementation progress, indicating successful completion of the feasibility study and designs within the designated timeframe. However, a donor conference has not yet been conducted, which is a key issue affecting project implementation. The government is responsible for organizing this conference by 31.12.2025. The project's main objective is to enhance food security, reduce poverty, and improve resilience to climate change through water and irrigation infrastructure development. The outcome indicators show that the study for the Mkhundvo Ngwavuma Water Augmentation Program has been successfully completed, achieving its targets. Despite the successful completion of studies for the Mpakeni Dam and the augmentation system, the failure to organize the donor conference remains a concern. Overall, the project is classified as fully satisfactory with no potential issues identified, although the organization of the donor conference is critical for future funding and support.

The Project Completion Report for the Shire Valley Transformation Project in Malawi outlines key data and assessments regarding the project's financing, implementation, and outcomes. The project, categorized as Category 1 for environmental impact, received a total financing of 37,310,000 UAC from various sources, including the A.D.F., N.T.F., and the OPEC Fund. The report details the disbursement status, indicating that approximately 69.39% of the funds were disbursed by the completion mission date. The project performance assessment highlights the relevance of the project objectives and design, both rated as highly satisfactory. The project aimed to reduce poverty through enhanced agricultural productivity and infrastructure improvements. However, the outcome indicators show that while some targets are on track, such as the area provided with irrigation services, others, like annual tonnage per hectare for various crops, have not yet been achieved. The efficiency of the project is rated as highly satisfactory, with a good commitment rate and a favorable economic rate of return, which improved from 8.50 at appraisal to 10.20 at completion. The sustainability of the project is also rated highly, with strong financial, institutional, and partnership sustainability, although environmental and social sustainability received a satisfactory rating. The performance of stakeholders is assessed positively, with the Bank's performance rated as highly satisfactory. Key lessons learned include the importance of better engagement with project management teams and the need for improved knowledge of Bank policies and guidelines to enhance project implementation. Overall, the report indicates that the project is on course to meet its objectives, with significant progress made in various areas despite some challenges.

The Implementation Progress and Results Report (IPR) for the project titled AU-Capacity Building to Strengthen the African Union Commission indicates that the project is progressing satisfactorily towards its development objectives. The project, which is financed by the African Development Fund with a total amount of 8.2 million UAC, has seen a disbursement of approximately 3.6 million UAC to date, leaving 4.6 million UAC undisbursed. The mid-term review conducted from November 11 to November 13, 2024, highlighted that both the development objective (DO) and implementation progress (IP) ratings are satisfactory, indicating that the project is on track to meet its goals. Key findings reveal that the project aims to enhance the AUC's capacity to drive Agenda 2063 and its flagship programs, with significant progress in establishing and reforming institutional systems. Notably, six systems have been upgraded, including a cybersecurity system and an integrated data center system. However, there are challenges, particularly regarding the submission of the audit report for 2023, which must be addressed by March 2025 to avoid halting new disbursements. The report also outlines various outcome indicators that are on track to be achieved, such as the development of a system to monitor Agenda 2063 projects and the establishment of a results-based management system. Additionally, the AUC has made strides in gender, climate change, and environmental mainstreaming, with policies and guidelines developed to support these initiatives. Overall, the report concludes that while there are some outstanding issues, the project is likely to achieve its targets with the implementation of corrective actions.

The report, dated September 2023, details the project titled Scaling-up the Clean Cooking Industry in Africa, which spans multiple countries including Ghana, Kenya, and Cameroon. The project, funded by a FAPA Grant, aimed to enhance clean cooking solutions by improving policies, standards, and training within the clean cooking sector. It involved collaboration with organizations like the Global Alliance for Clean Cookstoves (now known as the Clean Cooking Alliance) and the Global LPG Partnership, focusing on regulatory frameworks and capacity building for enterprises. The project was designed to strengthen the engagement of clean cooking enterprises in developing national standards, provide targeted capacity building, and support women's entrepreneurship in Cameroon. The relevance of the project was rated as satisfactory, as it aligned with national policies and the Bank's New Deal on Energy for Africa, aiming for universal clean cooking access by 2030. The project design, which remained largely unchanged, was also rated satisfactory, as it effectively utilized existing delivery modalities and partnerships to achieve expected outputs despite some delays. Key lessons learned included the recognition that the original two-year timeframe was insufficient due to logistical challenges exacerbated by the COVID-19 pandemic, which impacted project timelines and the morale of involved businesses. In terms of effectiveness, the project made significant progress towards its development objectives, enhancing the clean cookstove and fuel markets. In Ghana, it improved cookstove regulations and established standards, while in Kenya, it engaged stakeholders to refine standards. The project also provided tailored advisory services to address market barriers and supported safety audits in Cameroon, contributing to risk mitigation and training for LPG distributors. Overall, the project demonstrated a commitment to fostering growth in the clean cooking sector, with positive implications for health, gender equality, and climate resilience.

The project involves a provision of a USD 230 million Trade Finance Package Facility to Access Bank Plc in Nigeria, which includes a USD 170 million Trade Finance Line of Credit (TFLoC) with a tenor of 3.5 years and a USD 60 million Transaction Guarantee (TG) with a tenor of 3 years. The TFLoC aims to provide essential foreign exchange liquidity to support small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) and local businesses in the tradable sectors, enabling them to meet trade finance obligations and access international markets for critical inputs. The TG will allow Access Bank to act as an Issuing Bank, providing guarantees to Confirming Banks for non-payment risks associated with trade finance instruments. The implementation of these facilities will be governed by separate agreements detailing fund usage, reporting requirements, and compliance with environmental and social standards. The project aligns with the Private Sector Development Strategy (PSDS) 2021-2025 and the Bank's Ten-Year Strategy (TYS) 2024-2033, supporting Nigeria's economic revitalization and SME sector development. Expected outcomes include enhanced private sector development and positive gender impacts, particularly for women-owned businesses. Access Bank, a Tier 1 Nigerian bank with a strong market presence, is well-positioned to achieve these outcomes. The project is categorized as Category 2 for environmental and social safeguards and climate risk category 3, indicating a moderate level of risk. Compliance with local regulations, including obtaining Central Bank of Nigeria approval for forex borrowings, is a prerequisite for disbursement. Overall, the project is designed to facilitate the importation of essential goods and support economic growth in Nigeria.

The project summary outlines a trade finance Transaction Guarantee (TG) facility for Access Bank Gambia Limited (ABG), with a limit of up to USD 4 million and a tenor of 3 years. This facility aims to support trade finance activities in The Gambia by providing guarantees to Confirming Banks (CBs) against non-payment risks associated with letters of credit issued by ABG. The implementation will be guided by a TG Agreement that details the responsibilities of both the Bank and ABG, including transaction eligibility criteria and guarantee fees. The project targets small and medium enterprises (SMEs), particularly those led by women, which face significant challenges in accessing trade finance. The Bank's involvement aligns with its strategic goals to integrate Africa, feed Africa, and improve living standards, particularly in enhancing agricultural value chains. The TG facility is expected to address the critical shortage of trade finance in Gambia, which is exacerbated by high perceived risks and economic challenges. The project is classified as GEN II, indicating a strong focus on gender equality and women's economic empowerment. It is categorized as a Category 3 - low risk project under the AfDB's Climate Change Safeguards Systems. The project is set for appraisal in March 2024, with an estimated approval date in September 2024, and it includes compliance monitoring for environmental and social safeguards.

The report dated 30.10.2024 details the completion of the Micro and Small Medium Enterprises (MSME) Business Linkages project associated with the East African Crude Oil Pipeline in Uganda, which took place from 04.07.2024 to 10.07.2024. The project, funded by the Government of Uganda and supported by the African Development Bank (AfDB), aimed to enhance the participation of MSMEs in the oil sector by building their capacity and establishing business linkages. The Project Development Objective (PDO) was highly relevant to Uganda's sectoral needs, focusing on building the capacity of at least 200 MSMEs, establishing 50 business linkages between microenterprises and SMEs, and developing a sustainable framework for ongoing business relationships. The project aligned with Uganda's Third National Development Plan (NDPIII) and the AfDB's Country Strategic Paper (CSP), emphasizing the importance of leveraging natural resources for socio-economic development. A needs assessment identified operational gaps and challenges faced by MSMEs, leading to tailored training that improved compliance and formalization of businesses. The project successfully built the capacity of 264 MSMEs, exceeding its target, and strengthened women and youth-led enterprises, contributing to private sector development and job creation. The project design was rated as relevant due to its structured approach and effective implementation strategy, which included comprehensive needs assessments and stakeholder engagement. Key lessons learned included the value of effective mentorship and the significance of thorough needs assessments in tailoring support services. The project established sustainable business linkages through comprehensive training, coaching, and the signing of Memorandums of Understanding (MOUs), ensuring ongoing growth and development for MSMEs in the oil sector.

The COVID-19 Food Security Project in the Louga, Matam, and Kaffrine regions of Senegal, identified by project code P-SN-A00-023, aimed to enhance food security and increase the incomes of small-scale producers. The project was financed through the GAFSP Trust Funds, with a total budget of USD 6,356,002. The project was aligned with Senegal's 2021-2025 Country Strategy Paper and the Bank's Climate Change and Green Growth Strategic Framework, focusing on agricultural transformation and resilience building in the post-COVID-19 context. The project was designed to rehabilitate existing farming areas, construct agricultural and livestock buildings, and improve access to inputs and seeds. It specifically targeted three areas: farms and market gardening, lowlands, and livestock farming, with a focus on the Kaffrine region, which is becoming an agricultural hub. The project successfully transitioned from diesel-powered to solar-powered irrigation systems, reducing operational costs and labor, particularly benefiting women. The project also aimed to support small-scale livestock producers by providing training and resources for local feed production, which helped mitigate conflicts between farmers and breeders. The involvement of young farmers was notable, with over 70% of new farm beneficiaries aged 18 to 35, contributing to reduced rural exodus. Key lessons learned emphasized the importance of leveraging past experiences, ensuring timely technical studies, and maintaining the involvement of national technical directorates for project sustainability. The project ultimately took 15 months to complete, slightly longer than the planned 12 months, and was structured around developing agricultural and livestock infrastructure to promote food security and economic growth in the targeted regions.

The African Development Bank (AfDB) has established Climate Investment Funds (CIF) guidelines for the administration and utilization of Preparation Grants. After completing a proposal, eligible countries must send a request to the CIFs Administrative Unit for review and approval by the respective CIFs Governing Body. Upon approval, the Administrative Unit will notify the applicant and the concerned Multilateral Development Bank (MDB) to initiate the internal review process and grant disbursement. The review process is streamlined, as CIFs Preparation Grants are not subject to further review at the Bank level, following the governance structure of the CIFs. Approval limits for grants vary, with amounts up to USD 500,000 approved by the ONEC Director, and larger amounts requiring higher-level approvals, including the Board of Directors for grants exceeding USD 15 million. Procurement related to CIFs Preparation Grants must adhere to the existing procurement rules of the AfDB. The Bank is responsible for reporting to the CIFs Trust Fund Committees on its activities, with recommended grant closing dates set between 15 to 24 months post-signature of the Grant Agreement. Grants may be canceled if the agreement is not signed within 12 months of approval or if there is no implementation progress for 12 months after signing. Notably, there is no requirement for recipient contributions, and the maximum amounts for specific CIFs Investment Plan Preparation Grants are capped at USD 1.5 million for the Pilot Program for Climate Resilience (PPCR) and Scaling-Up Renewable Energy in Low-Income Countries (SREP), among others. The CIFs aim to facilitate quick access to resources for climate investment plans and project preparation activities, promoting a country-led approach integrated into national development strategies. The guidelines are designed to complement existing financial mechanisms and ensure that MDBs play a crucial role in providing access to financial resources and technology for climate actions, ultimately supporting sustainable development and poverty reduction. The CIFs are structured to mobilize additional financing for climate adaptation and mitigation programs, emphasizing collaboration with various stakeholders, including the private sector, while remaining accountable to the principles set by the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC).

The report, dated October 2024, details the Economic Recovery Support Program (ERSP) in Botswana, which aimed to enhance resilience and facilitate post-COVID-19 economic recovery through improved governance and structural reforms. The program's objectives included enhancing fiscal performance, increasing private sector participation, and promoting economic and social inclusion, which were deemed highly relevant both at appraisal and completion. The ERSP was aligned with Botswana's long-term Vision 2036 and various national development plans, addressing immediate fiscal needs while supporting medium-term reforms for economic diversification. The program was structured in two phases, with financing from the African Development Bank (ADB) and co-financing from partners like the World Bank and JICA. The design of the program was informed by government priorities and previous evaluations, although it faced challenges such as underestimating the time required for legislative actions and setting overly ambitious outcome indicators. Despite these issues, the program's flexibility allowed it to adapt to changing circumstances, and lessons learned emphasized the importance of coordination among development partners and the careful selection of impact indicators. Overall, the ERSP was rated as highly satisfactory in relevance and satisfactory in design, reflecting its alignment with national priorities and its capacity to respond to the economic challenges posed by the pandemic.

The Project Completion Report (PCR) for the Africa Disaster Risk Financing (ADRiFi) Programme in Zimbabwe outlines the project's aim to enhance the country's resilience to climate shocks by improving disaster risk management. The project, initiated on January 20, 2020, with a total approved amount of UA 736,000, was designed to address the increasing frequency of climatic events such as droughts and floods, which have led to significant food insecurity and poverty in Zimbabwe. The project aligns with national and regional strategies, including the National Development Strategy 1 (2021-2025) and the Bank Group's Strategy for Addressing Fragility and Building Resilience in Africa (2022-2026), focusing on building resilient societies and enhancing disaster risk management. The project has achieved significant milestones, including training officials from all ten provinces in climate risk management and developing a Disaster Risk Financing Strategy. Despite some delays in the approval of the Monitoring and Evaluation Framework and the Disaster Risk Financing Strategy, the project has successfully integrated drought risk financing into national budgets and established a framework for disaster risk response. The project has also facilitated knowledge transfer to government agencies, ensuring sustainability beyond its completion. Overall, the project has made substantial progress towards its objectives, with most outcome indicators either fully achieved or nearing completion.

The Rural Electrification Project in Benin - Phase II aims to enhance energy access in the Republic of Benin, aligning with the country's National Development Plan and National Electrification Strategy. The project is part of the African Development Bank's broader strategy to support agricultural transformation and infrastructure development, which are critical for economic competitiveness. The project includes various components such as financial and economic analysis, environmental and social safeguards, and risk management, ensuring comprehensive planning and execution. The Benin Electricity Corporation will execute the project, which is classified under the High 5 priorities of the Bank, specifically focusing on lighting up and powering Africa and improving the quality of life for its people. The project also emphasizes donor coordination and compliance with bank policies, reflecting a commitment to sustainable development and stakeholder engagement. Overall, the project is designed to provide significant benefits to the local population by improving energy access and supporting economic growth.

Protocole d'accord entre la Republique du Mali et la Banque africaine de developpement - P-ML-FZ0-003 - Projet d'appui a la promotion des energies renouvelables - PAPERM

Loan Agreement Between the Republic Of Angola and the African Development Fund - P-AO-D00-003 - Study For National Transport Sector Master Plan Update

Lettre d'accord - Don du fond d'assistance au secteur prive africain FAPA - P-CM-FA0-009 - Projet de Filiation des services de comptage de l'electricite au Cameroun

Accord de pret entre la Republique du Benin et le Fonds africain de developpement - P-BJ-KZ0-001 - Programme d'Appui a la reponse a la Covid-19

Loan Agreement Between the Republic of Uganda and the African Development Fund - P-UG-K00-009 - COVID-19 Response Support Programme

Accord de don entre la Banque africaine de developpement et le Fond africain de developpement - P-Z1-CZ0-005 - Programme de rehabilitation et de renforcement de la resilience des systemes Socio-ecologiques du bassin du lac Tchad PRESIBALT

Tripartite Funding and Implementation Agreement Amongst African Development Bank, Republic of Sierra Leone and United Nations Children Education Fund - P-SL-E00-013 - Emergency Covid-19 Relief Assistance for Water Sanitation and Hygiene Improvement

Accord de pret entre la Republique Democratique du Congo et le Fond africain de developpement - P-CD-KF0-010 - Projet d'appui a la consolidation du tissu economique

Loan Agreement Between the Republic of Mozambique and the African Development Fund - P-MZ-IZ0-002 - Women's Empowerment and Skills Development Project-Consolidation Phase

Protocol of Agreement Between the Republic of Malawi and the African Development Fund - P-MW-IA0-005 - Jobs For Youth Project

Agreement Between the United Republic of Tanzania and the Africans Development Fund - P-TZ-EAZ-003 - Feasibility Study for the Kikongue Multipurpose Dam Hydropower and Irrigation Project

Accord entre la Banque africaine de developpement et la Republique de Cote d'Ivoire - P-CI-EB0-001 - Projet de la promotion de l'acces aux toilettes et aux emplois a Bouake et Katiola

Protocole d'accord entre la Republique Democratique du Congo et le Fond africain de developpement - P-CD-KF0-010 - Projet d'appui a la consolidation du tissu economique

The proposed Imphal Ring Road Project will improve quality of life in Imphal by helping to decongest the city and promoting the use of e-vehicles. Access to markets, economic opportunities, as well as administrative, health and educational services will be enhanced. It will stimulate economic activities and directly create jobs.By improving road infrastructure and transport services focusing on safety elements and universal features for pedestrians and vulnerable users, the project benefits will be inclusive. Provision will be made for use of e-vehicles as last mile connectivity to support implementation of low carbon-emission pathways and the proposed project will align with the Paris Agreement requirements.Project Rationale and Linkage to Country/Regional StrategyImphal, the capital of Manipur, is the most populous city in the landlocked northeastern state and is experiencing rapid population growth. Several national highways connecting to other major cities of the north-eastern states along with trans-Asian routes pass through the city. Thus, Imphal also forms a key node in the South Asia Subregional Economic Cooperation (SASEC) transport corridors.The proposed IRR project primarily serves as a strategic road connection providing an enhanced route for intra-state and regional traffic to: Access the state's administrative, judicial, medical, and educational institutes surrounding the Imphal city center; Facilitate inter-state and regional connectivity.ImpactVibrant, carbon-neutral, and economically, socially, and ecologically sustainable state of Manipur achieved.OutcomeTransport efficiency, urban mobility and sustainability in Imphal improved.