Senegal, African Union mourn ex-AfDB boss Babacar Ndiaye

Babacar Ndiaye, a former president of the African Development Bank (AfDB) died on Thursday, July 13.

The Senegalese economist passed on at the age of 82 after an illness that admitted at the a medical facility in the Senegalese capital, Dakar. The African Union boss, Moussa Faki Mahamat was one of the persons who reacted to the death.

As a seasoned economist, Ndiaye is recognized for the momentum he gave to the continent’s economy during his decade in charge at the AfDB.

The _AfricanUnion family is deeply saddened by the passing of Dr Babacar Ndiaye,former head of the AfDB_Group. May his soul rest in peace.

— Moussa Faki Mahamat (@MoussaFaki_M) July 13, 2017

He is credited with helping the emergence of young entrepreneurs who have become builders of Africa. He is seen as a pillar behind in the affairs of the bank long after his tenure which spanned between May 1985 and August 1995.

Last May 22-26, at the 52nd annual meeting of the African Development Bank, in India, Babacar Ndiaye was once again one of the illustrious participants.

He was the first president to have a ten-year tenure. Since he left, two others have chalked the same duration. His Moroccan successor Omar Kabbaj (1995 -2005) and Rwandan Donald Kaberuka (2005 – 2015).

Kaberuka and the the current president, Akinwumi Adesina have all lamented the loss of Ndiaye through Twitter.

Babacar Ndiaye, President African Development Bank, 1985-95, died today. A giant of Africa, great leader. Great loss! pic.twitter.com/BX9hj8SZRq

— Akinwumi A. Adesina (@akin_adesina) July 13, 2017

I have learnt with shock and sadness the passing of my brother ,friend and predecessor #BabacarNdiaye AfDB_Group President (1985-1995).RIP

— Donald Kaberuka (DonaldKaberuka) July 13, 2017

Former President of AfDB, #BabacarNdiaye, just passed away. He was a true panafrican and a friend. We are missing him already. Really sad. pic.twitter.com/9h7EzPAE74

— Didier Acouetey (@DidierAcouetey) July 13, 2017