By Emamuzo Iboma
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 exceptional contributions to the country’s development.
President Samia Suluhu Hassan made the announcement during an inspection tour of the road project on Saturday, noting that a significant portion of the funding for the landmark infrastructure was provided by the AfDB.
The ceremony, which marked a momentous occasion in honour of the AfDB’s impact in Tanzania, was attended by Dr Adesina and his wife, former President Jakaya Kikwete, top government functionaries, dignitaries, local officials, and community members.
Addressing the cheering crowd, President Samia commended Dr Adesina’s visionary leadership and steadfast support for Tanzania’s development priorities.
“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.”
Encircling Dodoma, the country’s rapidly growing administrative capital, the road is expected to ease traffic congestion and improve regional connectivity.
The AfDB’s significant financial backing for the project has further solidified its position as a vital development partner in East Africa.
During the tour, President Samia and Dr Adesina also assessed progress on the Msalato International Airport project, another key infrastructure initiative supported by the AfDB. Upon completion, the airport will link directly to the newly named Adesina Road, forming a critical corridor to boost trade, tourism, and logistics.
Minister of Works, Abdallah Ulega, described the road as “a backbone for the future of Dodoma,” adding, “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.”
Visibly moved, Dr Adesina expressed deep appreciation to the Tanzanian government and its 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 admired for championing inclusive development and innovation across Africa. The naming of the road stands as a lasting tribute to his legacy and a symbol of the enduring partnership between Tanzania and the African Development Bank.
