World Bank Appoints Ousmane Dione Vice President for MENA Region

The World Bank has appointed Ousmane Dione as Vice President for the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region, effective immediately. Dione will lead the World Bank’s strategic partnerships with clients and stakeholders in the region, oversee an active operational portfolio of 139 projects with financing of more than $27 billion, and guide the delivery of cutting-edge knowledge, advice policy and advisory services in the region.

Under Dione’s leadership, the World Bank will continue to provide crucial support to MENA countries facing complex and multifaceted challenges. Priorities include promoting economic transformation and job creation in the private sector, human capital development with inclusive social protection, education and health systems, climate resilience supported by green energy , water and food security, and access to essential infrastructure including digital development.

Dione is an advocate for gender and youth equality and is committed to advancing the Bank’s work in the most challenging contexts affected by fragility and conflict. These priorities constitute a transversal axis in all areas of work in the region.

In his most recent position as Country Director for Eritrea, Ethiopia, South Sudan and Sudan, he led a major expansion of the Bank’s engagement, overseeing a portfolio of 17.5 billions of dollars. Under his leadership, Ethiopia became the Bank’s largest IDA client with a diverse program aimed at delivering transformative impact for the population, including expanding access to water, electricity and sanitation services. health. In Sudan, he played a crucial role in paving the way for the country’s full reintegration with the World Bank after nearly three decades. He also served as Country Director for Vietnam at a key moment in the country’s development, overseeing its transition from an IDA client to an IBRD client.

LNT with COP