A Zimbabwean will lead the AfDB’s operations in South Sudan.

THE African Development Bank Group (AfDB) has named Zimbabwean citizen Themba Bhebhe as South Sudan country manager, beginning October 1, 2021.

Bhebhe joined the Pan-African bank in 2002 and previously worked as a chief operations officer in the operations committee secretariat and quality assurance department, according to the AfDB.

He brings to the present position 30 years of expertise in country programming, project design, portfolio management, economic policy development and analysis, and operations evaluation, including 21 years with the AfDB.

Bhebhe also advised the AfDB’s executive director on five Southern African nations, including Zimbabwe, Angola, Botswana, Mozambique, and Namibia.

He has worked at the AfDB as a senior country economist and main country project officer for Zambia.

He held additional jobs, including officer in charge of the Zambia country office, where he oversaw the establishment and management of the office.

He oversaw policy discussion, portfolio management, and development partners while working at Zambia’s country office, including regional engagement with the Secretariat of the Common Market for Eastern and Southern Africa.

“I would want to convey my gratitude to President Adesina (Akinwumi) for his trust in me and for this chance to serve as South Sudan’s national manager,” Bhebhe added.

“I am excited to put my skills and experience to work to help the bank’s involvement and efforts to enhance South Sudan’s economic performance, development, and resilience.

“Adesina said that the bank was dedicated to assisting South Sudan in the establishment of strong institutions, inclusive growth, and development, as well as improved resilience.

“Bhebhe will lead the African Development Bank’s policy engagement with the government and provide more effective and impactful operations for South Sudan,” he stated.

Bhebhe has a Master’s Degree in Development Economics from Williams College in the United States of America, as well as a Bachelor of Science Degree in Economics from the University of Zimbabwe.