The United Kingdom and Ghana co-hosted the African Development Fund’s 17th replenishment pledging conference in London, aiming to mobilize resources for development projects across Africa. The event took place at the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development headquarters and brought together international partners, highlighting a shared commitment to sustainable growth and resilience on the continent.
The African Development Bank (AfDB) supports 54 African countries in areas such as climate change mitigation, economic recovery, job creation, and inclusive growth. The conference saw participation from key figures including Ludovic Ngatsé, Chairperson of the AfDB Boards of Governors and Republic of Congo’s Minister of Economy, Planning and Regional Integration; presidents of major regional banks like the Islamic Development Bank Group (IsDB), Arab Bank for Economic Development in Africa (BADEA), OPEC Fund for International Development; and representatives from the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development.
Ghana’s Deputy Minister of Finance, Hon. Thomas Nyarko Ampem MP, stated:
“Ghana is proud to have co-hosted this important conference and to champion Africa’s voice in shaping development priorities. Earlier this year, Ghana joined four other countries in pledging $16 million to the ADF, the first time all five countries in our constituency contributed. This demonstrates our commitment to reforms and partnerships that deliver tangible results for our people.”
UK Minister for Development Jenny Chapman said:
“The UK is proud to co-host the 17th replenishment of the African Development Fund alongside the Republic of Ghana. We have a long-standing partnership with the African Development Bank and support it in driving sustainable and inclusive growth on the continent – for the benefit of the UK and our African partners.
“We are delighted that President Tah decided to hold the first Private Sector Mobilisation Day here in London – recognising the vital role of the City of London in mobilising investment for Africa. The UK’s shifting role – from donor to investor – will support countries who want to grow their economies and ultimately exit the need for aid.”
In May 2025, Ghana pledged $5 million to ADF along with The Gambia, Liberia, Sierra Leone, and Sudan—a milestone reflecting increased engagement by African nations. These countries have enacted fiscal reforms consistent with AfDB priorities on governance performance and co-financing strategies. Ghana has improved domestic revenue collection through digital compliance systems and tax reforms while ADF funding has been directed toward women-led micro-, small- and medium-sized enterprises (MSMEs) as well as mini-grid energy projects.
The latest replenishment round is expected to feature higher contributions from African countries themselves—an indication that local ownership over development agendas is increasing.
Ghana’s role as co-host aligns with President Mahama’s Reset Agenda aimed at positioning Accra as a center for global dialogue on reforming North-South relations toward fairer financial systems led by country-driven models.
Meanwhile, Britain launched its new approach toward Africa during this conference—one focused on equal partnership rather than traditional aid relationships—with emphasis on trade, climate initiatives, innovation investment, and amplifying African voices internationally.
Both nations called upon global partners to maintain momentum towards these commitments.