By Bianca Iboma-Emefu
The Government of Tanzania has officially named the 112.3-kilometre Dodoma Outer Ring Road after the outgoing President of the African Development Bank (AfDB), Dr Akinwumi Adesina, in recognition of his outstanding contributions to the country’s development.
President Samia Suluhu Hassan made the announcement during a tour of the road project on Saturday, highlighting that much of the funding for this significant infrastructure was provided by the AfDB.
The ceremony was attended by Dr. Adesina and his wife,
along with former President Jakaya Kikwete, top government officials, dignitaries, local officials and community members, attended the event, marking a momentous occasion in appreciation of the AfDB’s contributions to Tanzanian development.
Addressing a cheering crowd, President Samia praised Dr Adesina’s visionary leadership and unwavering support for Tanzania’s development agenda.
“You can see that I have been accompanied by Dr Adesina, President of the African Development Bank, during this inspection tour of the ring road,” she said. “Under his leadership, Tanzania has benefited immensely from several strategic infrastructure projects. As he nears the end of his term, I express my heartfelt appreciation for his support to our country. May God bless his future endeavours.”
She added, “To honour his contribution—and that of the African Development Bank—in strengthening our transport sector, I have approved the Minister of Works’ proposal to name the Dodoma Outer Ring Road after him. So, I now officially declare that the Dodoma Outer Ring Road shall be called Dr Akinwumi Adesina Road.”
The road, which encircles Dodoma—the country’s fast-growing administrative capital—is expected to ease traffic congestion and improve regional connectivity.
The AfDB’s substantial financial support for the project has further cemented its reputation as a critical development partner in East Africa.
During the tour, President Samia and Dr Adesina also assessed ongoing work at the Msalato International Airport, another major project supported by the AfDB. Upon completion, the airport will be directly linked to the newly named Adesina Road, forming an essential infrastructure corridor to boost trade, tourism, and logistics.
Minister of Works, Abdallah Ulega, described the road as “a backbone for the future of Dodoma.”
“The Adesina Road will support Dodoma’s emergence as a key economic and administrative hub. This is more than a road—it’s a catalyst for growth,” he stated.
Visibly moved, Dr Adesina expressed his gratitude to the Tanzanian government and people.
“This is an extraordinary honour. I am humbled and deeply grateful. I have always believed in Africa’s potential, and Tanzania holds a special place in my heart,” he said.
Dr Adesina, who is completing his second term as AfDB President, is widely respected for his dedication to inclusive development and innovation across Africa. The naming of the road not only marks his legacy but also stands as a lasting symbol of partnership between Tanzania and the African Development Bank.