BRAZZAVILLE, Republic of Congo, September 20, 2025 – African Development Bank and Republic of Congo sign MOU for hosting of 2026 Annual Meetings, a milestone agreement that paves the way for the institution’s flagship annual event to take place in Brazzaville from May 25–29, 2026.
The signing ceremony was attended by Prime Minister Anatole Collinet Makosso, along with senior Congolese government officials and representatives from the African Development Bank Group (AfDB).
Ludovic Ngatsé, Minister of the Economy, Planning, Statistics, and Regional Integration, signed on behalf of the Republic of Congo in his capacity as the Bank Group Governor, while Vincent O. Nmehielle, Secretary General of the Bank, signed for the institution.
The 2026 Annual Meetings will be historic as they will be the first to take place under the chairmanship of Mr. Sidi Ould Tah, who was elected as President of the African Development Bank Group on May 29, 2025.
Preparations for 2026 Annual Meetings
Speaking at the ceremony, Minister Ngatsé described the preparatory mission as both “useful and fruitful.”
He explained that discussions clarified the scope of commitments required by both parties and laid the groundwork for the creation of dedicated institutional structures to ensure the success of the meetings.
From the Bank’s side, Vincent O. Nmehielle reaffirmed the institution’s commitment to maintaining the high standards of its statutory event.
“By signing this memorandum of understanding, the Government of the Republic of Congo commits to providing the goods and services necessary for the effective organization and smooth running of the Annual Meetings, in accordance with the Bank’s procurement rules and procedures,” he said.
“The Bank will also strive to ensure quality standards are maintained at all times, through ongoing dialogue with the host country.”
Importance of the MOU
African Development Bank and Republic of Congo sign MOU for hosting of 2026 Annual Meetings to consolidate logistical, security, hospitality, language, ICT, and transportation arrangements.
The agreement formalizes the first discussion document of the preparatory mission, providing a roadmap for Congolese authorities to guarantee a seamless experience for all participants.
The Annual Meetings are a key statutory event for the Bank Group, enabling its Board of Governors and management to review progress and adopt resolutions that guide the institution’s strategy.
Each year, the event attracts more than 3,000 participants, including government representatives, development partners, private sector leaders, philanthropists, civil society, researchers, and the media.
A Longstanding Partnership
Congo has been a member of the African Development Bank Group since 1972. Over this period, the Bank has financed projects worth $1.27 billion across multiple sectors, including transport, agriculture, energy, finance, and water and sanitation.
As of June 30, 2025, the active portfolio in Congo comprised nine sovereign operations with commitments totaling approximately $223.3 million.
The 2026 meetings will mark the second time the Republic of Congo has hosted the Annual Meetings, the first being in 1984.
Hosting the event once again underscores the country’s commitment to deepening its partnership with the African Development Bank and strengthening its role in advancing regional integration and development.
Looking Ahead
African Development Bank and Republic of Congo sign MOU for hosting of 2026 Annual Meetings at a crucial moment in Africa’s development agenda.
With President Sidi Ould Tah assuming leadership of the Bank, the event will provide a platform for fresh strategic direction and discussions on mobilizing resources to accelerate inclusive growth.
The meetings in Brazzaville will also spotlight Congo’s role as a host country and showcase its capacity to organize a large-scale international event that brings together Africa’s most influential leaders and partners.
About the African Development Bank Group:
The African Development Bank Group (AfDB) is Africa’s leading development finance institution.
It comprises three entities: the African Development Bank (AfDB), the African Development Fund (ADF), and the Nigeria Trust Fund (NTF).
With a presence in 41 African countries and an external office in Japan, the Bank is committed to promoting economic development and social progress across its 54 member states.
Media Contact:
Solange Kamuanga-Tossou
Communications and External Relations Department
African Development Bank Group
Email: [email protected]
Distributed by APO Group on behalf of the African Development Bank Group (AfDB).
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