Tanzania has honoured African Development Bank President Dr. Akinwumi Adesina with an honorary doctorate and named a major highway after him in recognition of his transformative leadership and the Bank’s significant contributions to the country’s development.
Dr. Akinwumi Ayodeji Adesina, President of the African Development Bank (AfDB), has received a significant honor from the Tanzanian government and its leading academic institution for his transformative leadership and development achievements across the African continent.
During the University of Dar es Salaam’s (UDSM) 55th Graduation Ceremony (Cluster 1) held last Friday, Dr. Adesina was conferred with an honorary Doctor of Science degree. The award recognized his far-reaching impact on Africa’s socio-economic progress and unwavering support for Tanzania’s development priorities.
Presenting the award, UDSM Chancellor and former Tanzanian President, Dr. Jakaya Mrisho Kikwete, praised Dr. Adesina’s legacy and recalled Tanzania’s early endorsement of his leadership at the AfDB.
In his acceptance remarks, Dr. Adesina expressed heartfelt appreciation to the university, stating,
“I am deeply honoured to receive this honorary doctorate from Tanzania’s most prestigious university. I thank the Chancellor, Vice Chancellor, University Council, faculty, and staff for this incredible recognition.”
Addressing the graduating Class of 2025, he encouraged them to become catalysts for change:
“You are the game-changers. Today, you graduate not just with knowledge—but with the freedom to lead, to innovate, and to transform your communities and the world.”
Dr. Adesina also noted that the AfDB had invested over $4.73 billion in Tanzania during his tenure—more than half of the Bank’s cumulative commitment to the country since 1971.
The honours continued the following day when Tanzanian President Samia Suluhu Hassan announced that the Dodoma Outer Ring Road—an ongoing 112.3-kilometre highway project—would be named in Dr. Adesina’s honour. Speaking at a public rally in Mtumba, Dodoma, the President said the tribute acknowledged both Dr. Adesina’s leadership and AfDB’s robust support for Tanzania’s infrastructure sector.
“As he nears the end of his term, I wish to express my heartfelt appreciation for his support to our country,” President Samia declared. “To honour his contribution, and that of the African Development Bank, I hereby approve the naming of the Dodoma Outer Ring Road as Dr Akinwumi Adesina Road.”
The announcement was made in the presence of Dr. Adesina, his wife, former President Kikwete, and senior government officials during an inspection of the road project.
This newly named Dr Akinwumi Adesina Road is among several transformative AfDB-supported projects designed to enhance regional connectivity, promote trade, and stimulate economic growth. President Samia and Dr. Adesina also visited the construction site of Msalato International Airport—another AfDB-funded venture that will link directly to the highway.
Since becoming AfDB President in 2015 and being re-elected in 2020, Dr. Adesina has spearheaded major reforms under the Bank’s “High 5s” development strategy: Light Up and Power Africa, Feed Africa, Industrialize Africa, Integrate Africa, and Improve the Quality of Life for the People of Africa.
With his tenure drawing to a close, the academic and civic recognitions by Tanzania serve as a powerful testament to his legacy of visionary leadership and impactful service to Africa.
“This honour is not just for me,” Dr. Adesina concluded. “It is for everyone who believes in Africa’s promise and works daily to build a more prosperous and inclusive future. Thank you, Tanzania, from the bottom of my heart.”
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