Rabat, Morocco// – Shelter Afrique Development Bank (ShafDB) has unveiled a new brand identity as the institution completes its transition into a fully-fledged Multilateral Development Bank (MDB), reinforcing its commitment to advancing affordable housing, urban development, and economic transformation across Africa.
The new brand was officially unveiled in Rabat, Morocco, during the Bank’s 45th Annual General Meeting (AGM), marking a significant milestone in its evolution and growth.
“Rebranding means more than a name change. It represents a transformation in the institution’s mandate, operations, and impact. Our transition into a development bank expands our role across the housing value chain, enabling us to mobilise greater resources, support larger projects, create jobs, and deliver sustainable development outcomes across Africa,” said Thierno-Habib Hann, Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of Shelter Afrique Development Bank.
Over the years, the Bank has pursued a strategic agenda aimed at expanding its financing capacity to respond to the growing demand for housing and urban infrastructure on the continent.
With a membership of 44 African countries and institutional shareholders, including the African Development Bank and African Reinsurance Corporation, ShafDB has strengthened its position as a leading pan-African institution dedicated to housing and urban development.
“Our success will not ultimately be measured by strategies adopted, policies approved, or meetings held. It will be measured by homes financed, cities improved, jobs created, and lives transformed. The reform phase of the institution must now become the delivery phase,” said Lionel Zinsou, Chairman of Shelter Afrique Development Bank.
The Bank’s transformation into a Multilateral Development Bank positions it alongside Africa’s leading development finance institutions and enhances its ability to address the continent’s estimated housing deficit of more than 53 million units, which requires approximately US$1.3 trillion in financing.
“Our vision for the next five years and beyond is to lead the transformation of Africa’s housing and urban development landscape by financing sustainable housing, strengthening urban infrastructure, and creating economic opportunities for millions of Africans,” added Hann.
The rebranding comes at a time when African multilateral development institutions are strengthening partnerships and mobilising capital to accelerate development impact across the continent. Through its new identity, ShafDB reaffirms its commitment to driving inclusive growth, sustainable urbanisation, and climate-resilient development.
The new logo reflects the Bank’s renewed ambition and aligns with the theme of the 45th AGM: “The Future of Cities: Financing Inclusive, Green, and Resilient Urban Development.” The theme underscores the growing momentum among Africa’s leaders in housing, finance, and urban development to mobilise innovative financing solutions that will shape the future of African cities and improve the lives of millions.
As Shelter Afrique Development Bank enters its next chapter, the institution remains focused on delivering measurable impact through housing finance, urban infrastructure investment, and strategic partnerships that contribute to Africa’s long-term prosperity.
