Advancing Regional Programs in Africa: New Director Nathan Belete Takes Office
On 1 May 2026, the World Bank announced that Mr Nathan Belete has officially assumed his role as the new Regional Programmes Director for Africa. Based in Nairobi, Kenya, Mr Belete will oversee the implementation of the World Bank’s regional programmes in Africa, supporting efforts to advance economic and policy cooperation across the continent. In addition to the financing of critical projects, he will lead policy dialogue and enhance partnerships with regional economic communities, regional organisations, governments, and development partners.
“I am honoured to take on this role at a time when regional integration is more critical than ever for Africa’s growth and resilience,” said Nathan Belete. “I look forward to working closely with countries, continental and regional institutions, as well as with partners to strengthen connectivity, expand opportunities, and help translate regional cooperation into tangible development outcomes for people across the continent.”
Prior to his appointment, Mr Belete served as the World Bank’s Division Director for Malawi, Tanzania, Zambia, and Zimbabwe, overseeing a portfolio of more than 17 billion. He previously served as Country Director for Cabo Verde, The Gambia, Guinea-Bissau, Mauritania, and Senegal, and as Practice Manager for the Food and Agriculture Global Practice in East Asia and the Pacific. Earlier in his career, he worked in agriculture and rural development roles with World Vision and UNICEF.
The World Bank Group has been a long-standing partner in Africa’s regional integration efforts since the 1980s, helping the continent to unlock economic opportunities by strengthening cross-border connectivity and cooperation. Its current portfolio is around $21 billion, encompassing more than 60 regional projects and programmes that focus on improving regional connectivity in energy, transport, and digital infrastructure; advancing trade and market integration; investing in human capital; and building resilience across countries and regions, with the goal of translating regional integration ambitions into tangible and inclusive development outcomes.
