London, 16 December 2025: The conclusion of the African Development Fund’s 17th Replenishment underscores a meaningful shift in Africa’s development financing model, with African countries demonstrating collective leadership in supporting the continent’s primary concessional finance institution. 

The strong participation by African governments illustrates a shared understanding that the African Development Fund is not a passive financing mechanism. It is a strategic platform for affordable and catalytic development finance, strengthening financial sovereignty, mobilising capital and supporting long-term development where it is needed most. This leadership signals a decisive move towards shared responsibility and ownership. 

Ndidi Okonkwo Nwuneli, CEO of the ONE Campaign and ADF-17 Champion, said: “ADF-17 has sent a clear message that Africa is not merely a recipient of development finance but is an active partner shaping its own future. When African countries support the Fund, they strengthen its credibility, unlock greater leverage and reinforce a model of development finance built on ownership, accountability and measurable returns.” 

The momentum created by African leadership should now anchor the next phase of multilateral development reform, calling on all partners to align behind institutions that reflect African priorities and are equipped to deliver resilient infrastructure and systems, inclusive growth and long-term stability at scale.