In a significant move to further strengthen the internal capacity of its staff through a structured project management training and certification programme, the African Development Bank (AfDB) has entered into a partnership with Project Management Institute (PMI), the world’s leading authority in project management. This will see an initial cohort of 200 AfDB staff being equipped with advanced project management skills, fostering greater efficiency and success across its extensive portfolio of development projects.
Through this partnership, AfDB is looking to accelerate its project management expertise. By empowering an initial cohort of trained professionals, the Bank is nurturing a culture that prioritises excellence and effective project execution—one that, if expanded, could amplify the impact and success of transformative initiatives across the continent.
With AfDB’s focus on delivering transformative projects, robust project management practices are essential to navigate the complexities inherent in each priority area, mitigate risks, and maximise project success. Ultimately, strong project management underpins the Bank’s mission to drive tangible progress across Africa, empowering regional member countries to achieve their development goals.
PMI plays a critical role in supporting this mission by enhancing the “bankability” of projects, ensuring they are not only well-executed but also deliver measurable impact.
“As the project management landscape evolves rapidly, partnering with PMI enables the Bank to access the latest methodologies, including PMI’s advancements in AI-driven project management tools. This collaboration places the AfDB at the forefront of best practices, empowering teams to tackle complex, large-scale projects with enhanced adaptability, agility, and the assurance of delivering measurable outcomes aligned with the Bank’s ambitious development goals,” says George Asamani, MD, Sub Saharan Africa, PMI.
PMI will deliver a comprehensive training programme tailored to AfDB’s unique operational needs, beginning with PMI membership for 200 AfDB employees. Membership will grant staff access to PMI’s extensive global network, resources, tools, and industry insights, fostering professional growth and connection within the broader project management community.
A key component of PMI’s support is a structured training and certification programme tailored to equip AfDB staff with essential project management skills. PMI’s Authorised Training Partner will deliver this programme to ensure employees receive rigorous, industry-relevant training. PMI will administer the exams, with successful candidates earning the gold-standard Project Management Professional (PMP) certification issued by PMI.
“PMI is honored to partner with the African Development Bank, an institution whose work aligns closely with our purpose to maximise project success to elevate our world, adds Mr Asamani. “With AfDB’s ambitious agenda for Africa’s sustainable development, we are excited to support their mission by equipping their professionals with the skills to lead high-impact projects, deliver value, and strengthen economies across the continent.”
Given the continent-wide scope of its projects, AfDB recognises that skill levels across markets vary significantly. By investing in its staff’s project management capabilities, AfDB seeks to mitigate risks, reduce project delays, and maximise value. Through the partnership with PMI, the Bank aims to achieve a higher standard of project execution that will serve as a benchmark for development projects across the continent.
Under the visionary leadership of Dr. Akinwumi Adesina, President of AfDB, the institution has consistently emphasised the importance of building internal capacity to ensure effective project delivery. His steadfast advocacy for strengthening project management capabilities has been instrumental in shaping the Bank’s strategic approach to tackling development challenges. This partnership with the PMI reflects his commitment to empowering teams with the skills needed to deliver transformative projects that drive sustainable growth across Africa.
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