This year’s Annual Meetings were nothing short of inspiring, welcoming over 11,000 participants from 200+ countries. It was a powerful reminder of our shared mission to create a brighter future and a more effective and impactful World Bank Group. Here are some standout moments:
1. Engaging with African Leaders and Partners
Our conversations with government delegations from Western and Central Africa and partners focused on aligning our development goals while keeping people at the forefront. We reaffirmed our support for countries pursuing their ambitious targets.
2. Powering Africa: Mission 300
Together with our partners, we renewed our commitment to bringing energy access to 300 million Africans by 2030 through the Mission 300 initiative. A dynamic panel of African ministers and private sector leaders showcased how strategic partnerships can mobilise resources and fast-track electricity access. It’s clear: #PoweringAfricarequires us all to work together!
3. The Critical Role of IDA
The International Development Association (IDA) remains an essential partner for Sub-Saharan Africa, providing affordable financing and vital knowledge to tackle poverty. IDA took centre stage as we rallied donor support for the upcoming 21st replenishment meeting in December.
4. Closing the Gap on Jobs
With 1.2 billion young people set to enter the job market in emerging markets over the next decade—and only 420 million jobs expected—the World Bank launched a high-level council dedicated to bridging this gap. Led by Tharman Shanmugaratnam, President of Singapore, and Michelle Bachelet, former President of Chile, this council met for the first time during the Annual Meetings. The goal? To explore innovative solutions for creating jobs for young people.
5. Championing Gender Equality
The World Bank unveiled ambitious actions to enhance economic opportunities for women—expanding broadband access, enhanced social protection programs, and access to capital. The call to action was clear: #AccelerateEquality! Countries like Togo, Nigeria, and Cabo Verde have promising paths toward gender equality with innovative reforms that open doors for women to succeed.
6. State of the Africa Region
By 2030, 170 million more students are set to enter Africa’s schools—a huge opportunity to transform education for a rapidly evolving job market. A distinguished panel of government officials, private sector innovators, and civil society leaders came together to explore Education and Skills for Africa’s Future.
7. Transforming Agriculture for Sustainability
Ambitious investment plans aim to boost agricultural productivity and nutrition worldwide. With the creation of a comprehensive ecosystem that integrates resources to support the agriculture sector, the goal is to double agri-finance and agribusiness commitments to $9 billion annually by 2030.
8. Innovative Financing
The World Bank is set to expand its lending capacity through innovative financing strategies, potentially generating $150 billion in additional funding over the next decade. This is about driving meaningful change in communities and improving lives.
World Bank Group Announces New Financing, Adjusts Pricing Terms
9. Enhancing Transparency with the WBG Scorecard
The new World Bank Group Scorecard underscores our commitment to transparency and impact, clearly outlining our methodologies and data to foster scalable development worldwide.
As we reflect on the insights gained from these meetings, it’s evident that our mission to #EndPoverty on a #LivablePlanet will only succeed with collaboration, innovation, and ambition. Together, we can create solutions while laying a strong foundation for generations to come. #WBGMeetings
By Ousmane Diagana, Vice President, Western and Central Africa Region
