The Norwegian Government has committed approximately NOK 3 billion in funding to the African Development Fund (ADF) for the 2026–2028 period. The ADF, part of the African Development Bank Group, focuses on promoting economic and social development in the 37 least developed African countries. This funding will support access to essential services, including food, electricity, water and sanitation, health care, education, and employment opportunities, contributing to poverty reduction and sustainable development across the continent.
Prime Minister Jonas Gahr Støre emphasized that all countries share a responsibility to foster a more peaceful and equitable world. He highlighted that Norway’s contribution will directly improve the lives of some of the world’s poorest people and help achieve lasting development in Africa. Minister of International Development Åsmund Aukrust noted that with international aid facing significant cutbacks, smarter use of aid funding is essential. Norway’s contribution aims to mobilize private capital through partnerships and innovative solutions, enhancing sustainable development in Africa.
The ADF’s extensive experience in cooperating with the private sector, supporting national institutional reforms, and strengthening economic governance makes it a powerful tool in combating poverty. The Fund provides long-term, low-interest or interest-free loans and grants to heavily indebted countries, supporting both the Sustainable Development Goals and climate targets. Norway’s NOK 3.1 billion contribution, up from NOK 2.8 billion in the previous round, includes allocations for debt relief and climate change adaptation under the ADF’s Climate Action Window.
ADF funding is sourced from around 30 Western and non-Western donors through a triennial replenishment process. Norway prioritizes core support to the ADF to ensure predictable funding and rapid adaptation to crises, including health emergencies, food insecurity, conflicts, and political instability. The ADF ranks highly in international evaluations for aid effectiveness and results delivery, making it a trusted partner for development interventions.
The ADF is integral to initiatives such as Mission 300, which seeks to provide 300 million people in Africa with electricity by 2030, and supports programs promoting women’s rights and gender equality. Norway’s contributions align with its 2024 strategy for engagement with African countries and reinforce the ADF’s mandate to accelerate inclusive green growth, strengthen infrastructure and energy systems, support agriculture and food security, and promote regional integration.
Overall, Norway’s enhanced support to the African Development Fund underscores its commitment to sustainable development, poverty alleviation, and climate adaptation in Africa. By providing predictable, long-term funding, Norway helps ensure that the ADF can continue delivering high-impact projects that benefit the continent’s most vulnerable populations.
