Denmark has announced a significant pledge of DKK 1.1 billion to the African Development Fund’s 17th replenishment (ADF-17), marking a 40 percent increase over its previous contribution. The announcement was made during the 2025 Nordic-African Foreign Affairs Ministers’ Meeting and highlights Denmark’s commitment to advancing the Sustainable Development Goals and the Paris Agreement in Africa. This early pledge sets a strong precedent for other donor nations ahead of the ADF-17 pledging session scheduled for December 2025.
The new commitment underscores Denmark’s longstanding partnership with the African Development Bank Group and its global leadership in tackling major challenges such as climate change, youth unemployment, and resilience in fragile states. Danish Foreign Minister Lars Løkke Rasmussen emphasized the importance of multilateral collaboration, noting that the Fund plays a crucial role in improving lives across Africa. He called on other countries to follow Denmark’s lead in supporting sustainable development efforts on the continent.
The African Development Fund, established in 1972 as the concessional arm of the African Development Bank Group, provides critical financing to 37 low-income African countries. With more than $45 billion invested since its creation, the Fund supports projects across key sectors, including energy, transport, agriculture, governance, and regional integration. It also operates innovative financing mechanisms like the Transition Support Facility to channel resources toward countries and sectors most in need.
Dr. Sidi Ould Tah, President of the African Development Bank Group, welcomed Denmark’s early and increased pledge, describing it as a demonstration of trust in the Fund’s effectiveness and a shared vision for inclusive and resilient growth in Africa’s most vulnerable nations. He highlighted that partnerships like these are instrumental in driving tangible progress across the continent.
Denmark’s renewed contribution aligns with its latest Strategy for Development Cooperation and its Africa Strategy, “The African Century – Partnerships of Equals.” The country continues to advocate for ambitious climate financing goals, particularly for adaptation and just transitions, while promoting private investment and regional market integration. These initiatives not only strengthen Africa’s economies but also open pathways for collaboration with Danish enterprises.
The ADF-17 pledging session in December 2025 will gather development partners to finalize contributions. Denmark’s proactive commitment is expected to bolster momentum for a successful replenishment outcome that aligns with Africa’s development priorities and the evolving global agenda for sustainable growth.
