Denmark has pledged DKK 1.1 billion (about $160 million) to the African Development Fund’s 17th replenishment (ADF-17), representing a 40 per cent increase on its previous commitment.
The African Development Bank (AfDB), in a statement on Friday, said the announcement was made on the sidelines of the 2025 Nordic-African Foreign Affairs Ministers’ Meeting, underscoring Denmark’s long-standing partnership with the Bank.
Danish Foreign Minister Lars Rasmussen said the pledge reaffirmed his country’s commitment to Africa and multilateral cooperation. “The Fund is a vital partner for African countries, delivering tangible impact on people’s lives. We encourage other countries to join us in supporting robust replenishment,” he said, stressing the need for joint action to tackle Africa’s development and climate challenges.
AfDB President Dr. Sidi Ould Tah described Denmark’s early commitment as a vote of confidence in the Fund’s role in advancing inclusive growth, resilience and opportunity for Africa’s most vulnerable economies.
Since its creation in 1972, the ADF — the Bank’s concessional window — has invested more than $45 billion in energy, agriculture, transport, governance and regional integration across 37 low-income African countries.
Denmark’s pledge also aligns with its new Africa Strategy, “The African Century: Partnerships of Equals,” which prioritises climate adaptation, private investment and deeper regional market integration.
The ADF-17 replenishment session is scheduled for December, where development partners will finalise their contributions. Observers say Denmark’s early move sets a positive tone for a strong outcome that reflects Africa’s priorities and global development goals.
