By Savannah Pokuaah Duah
African Development Bank (AfDB), presidential candidate, Dr. Samuel Munzele Maimbo, has shared his insights on effective negotiation strategies and his vision for the bank’s future.
In an interview on GTV’s breakfast show on Monday, February 24, 2025, Dr. Maimbo highlighted the importance of starting negotiations from a point of value rather than getting bogged down in legal documents.
“When you start a negotiation from a point of value, you can demonstrate the benefits of cooperation and find common ground. For example, if you reduce tariffs by 50%, trade volumes can increase by 150%. This approach helps to build trust and momentum, making it easier to navigate the formalities and bureaucracies that often follow,” Dr. Maimbo stated.
Dr. Maimbo also outlined his three-point process for addressing complex challenges that require significant resources.
Firstly, he stressed the need to leverage the institution’s own resources and balance sheet. Secondly, he underscored the importance of partnerships with the private sector to provide seed financing and support infrastructure development. Finally, he further stressed the need to prioritise strategic investments, even in difficult situations, to maximise impact.
