ADFD advances African road projects, infrastructure

The Abu Dhabi Fund for Development has reported progress on key road infrastructure projects in Nigeria, Togo, and Madagascar, with completion rates reaching 45 per cent, 92 per cent, and 80 per cent, respectively.

The fund said the projects form part of its development portfolio across Africa and are being closely monitored to ensure implementation aligns with approved frameworks and timelines.

In a statement, ADFD said the projects include the rehabilitation of the “Sokodé – Bassar” Road in Togo, a road infrastructure development project in Madagascar, and the “Minna – Bida” Road Project in Nigeria.

The fund stated that its supervision and direct monitoring of the projects were aimed at supporting infrastructure development and economic growth in beneficiary countries.

Commenting on the projects, the Director General of ADFD, Mohammed Saif Al Suwaidi, said, “At Abu Dhabi Fund for Development, we are committed to continuously monitoring the progress across our development projects to ensure their efficient and high-quality implementation in accordance with approved timelines. This approach enables us to keep pace with on-ground developments and enhances project readiness to achieve their intended objectives.

“Our efforts reflect the Fund’s mission to support partner countries in developing their infrastructure and stimulating economic growth, reinforcing ADFD’s role as an extension of the UAE’s vision in creating sustainable development impact that benefits communities and enhances quality of life.”

According to the statement, the rehabilitation of the 62-kilometre “Sokodé – Bassar” Road in Togo is nearing completion at 92 per cent. The project includes rainwater and flood protection works, consultancy, and supervision services.

ADFD said the project, financed with approximately AED37m, is expected to improve connectivity between Lomé and inland regions, reduce transport costs, and enhance road safety.

In Madagascar, the fund said work is ongoing on a 117-kilometre dual-lane road and seven bridges, with completion reaching 80 per cent. The project, financed through a concessional loan exceeding AED110m, is expected to improve connectivity between rural areas, ease traffic movement, and support sectors including agriculture, industry, and tourism.

For Nigeria, the fund said the Minna-Bida Road Project in Niger State, financed with AED165m, had reached 45 per cent completion. According to ADFD, the 82-kilometre road linking Minna and Bida is expected to reduce travel time between both cities by 50 per cent and lower vehicle operating costs by 31 per cent.

The fund added that the project would support transport efficiency and economic activities between major cities. ADFD stated that the progress recorded across the projects reflects its commitment to infrastructure development and sustainable economic growth across Africa.