THE African Development Bank (AfDB) and the US Trade and Development Agency (USTDA) have renewed their strategic partnership, extending their Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) for another five years. The agreement, which highlights a shared commitment to advancing quality infrastructure across Africa, aims to strengthen national procurement systems and align them with international best practices.
Signed under the Global Procurement Initiative (GPI) framework, the renewed partnership is set to expand the pipeline of bankable projects eligible for USTDA’s project preparation grants, fostering sustainable development and fair competition.
Shared vision for sustainable growth
USTDA Director Enoh T. Ebong emphasised the importance of the partnership, saying, ‘The extension of our strategic partnership reaffirms our shared commitment to creating a more sustainable and prosperous future for Africa. By combining our resources and expertise, we are delivering impactful solutions that promote high-quality, sustainable infrastructure on the continent while increasing opportunities for US companies through transparent and effective procurement systems.’
The collaboration will focus on enhancing public procurement capabilities to support economic growth and development. By creating transparent, efficient procurement systems, the agreement seeks to level the playing field for international competition while integrating innovative solutions into infrastructure projects.
Strategic focus on project preparation
A key highlight of the renewed MOU is a stronger emphasis on project preparation. Both organisations will work to improve project design and readiness, ensuring successful implementation of infrastructure projects across sectors such as energy, transportation, healthcare, and digital technology.
By leveraging the expertise of US companies, the partnership aims to incorporate cutting-edge solutions into development activities, attract investment, and drive sustainable infrastructure growth across Africa.
Building on a strong foundation
The partnership builds on the success of the original MOU, signed in 2018. AfDB Senior Vice President Marie-Laure Akin-Olugbade praised the continued collaboration, stating, ‘This will ensure that we continue to strengthen national procurement institutions, build capacity, and ensure effective implementation of procurement programs within our regional member countries. This fortifies our institutions’ joint ambitions to assist emerging economies in promoting best procurement practices and fostering sustainable economic growth.’
Launched in 2013, USTDA’s Global Procurement Initiative has been instrumental in helping public officials in 16 partner countries understand the total cost of ownership of goods and services for infrastructure projects. By focusing on long-term value rather than just initial costs, GPI promotes smarter, more sustainable procurement strategies.
Supporting African development
The partnership aims to bring significant benefits to African nations by combining AfDB’s development expertise with USTDA’s project preparation resources. Together, they aim to deliver high-quality infrastructure that supports economic growth while ensuring procurement systems remain fair, transparent, and effective.
USTDA plays a critical role in linking U.S. businesses to export opportunities by funding project preparation activities that develop sustainable infrastructure. As part of its mission, the agency also fosters economic growth in emerging economies while creating US jobs through exports.
The renewed collaboration between AfDB and USTDA signals a continued commitment to addressing Africa’s infrastructure challenges. By strengthening procurement systems and prioritising well-prepared, bankable projects, the partnership aims to deliver transformative development solutions that drive sustainable growth across the continent.
