Norway is contributing more than NOK 3 billion to the African Development Fund (ADF) for the period 2026–2028 (ADF-17). The Fund’s resources are used in the 37 poorest countries in Africa, with a strong focus on strengthening public institutions and improving economic governance. 

Abidjan
Credit: MFSTUDIOS/AfDB

For Norway, this is effective aid, as the Fund mobilises substantial external and private capital, thereby increasing the impact of every dollar invested.  

‘We know that having a job, and decent income and work conditions is the most important way for people to exit the poverty trap. This is true in Norway, as well as elsewhere in the world. The African Development Fund is an important partner in achieving this – especially because the Bank and the Fund enjoy strong legitimacy among African countries,’ said Mr Aukrust.  

A key pillar of the work of the African Development Bank and the Fund is to support countries in mobilising domestic resources, including through taxation, and in managing these revenues in ways that benefit the population. This is essential for attracting private investment, which in turn helps create jobs. Employment is central to efforts to eradicate poverty. 

‘The objective of our engagement in the African Development Fund is to support more inclusive and resilient economies and stable societies. The Fund has demonstrated its ability to assist the poorest African countries in their long-term efforts to achieve the climate and sustainable development goals. Over time, this helps reduce dependence on aid,’ said Minister of International Development Åsmund Aukrust.  

The Fund invests in the development of critical infrastructure, such as energy. This helps make countries more self-sufficient and less vulnerable to external shocks. Access to energy is also a prerequisite for development. 

When the ADF was established in 1972, no African countries contributed to the Fund. Today, 25 countries do so. 

‘This reflects the fact that many African countries have experienced – and continue to experience – economic growth, which is crucial for creating stability and prosperity for those living in Africa today, especially the young population. It also demonstrates a desire for greater African ownership of the ADF as an instrument for countries’ own development, and a willingness to support those countries that still face major challenges. Norway welcomes this increased African ownership,’ said the Minister of International Development. 

Facts about the African Development Bank (AfDB) and the African Development Fund (ADF)

The African Development Bank aims to promote economic and social development in Africa. The Bank’s 10-year strategy (2024–2033) has two overarching objectives: inclusive green growth and resilient economies. Priority areas include infrastructure and energy, agriculture and food security, industrialisation and regional integration. The Bank also seeks to address the underlying causes of displacement and forced migration, with a particular emphasis on economic governance and employment, especially for women and young people. 

Norway and other member countries participate in periodic general capital increases in the Bank in the form of share subscriptions through annual payments, combined with associated state guarantees. The bulk of Norway’s core contributions, however, consists of grant funding to the African Development Fund, which provides advisory services and financing in the form of highly concessional loans and grants to the 37 poorest countries. Donor countries contribute through replenishments every three years. Contributions for the period 2026–2028 (ADF-17) were announced in London in December 2025. 

Norway is contributing more than NOK 3.1 billion to the African Development Fund over the three-year period 2026–2028 (ADF-17), including an additional contribution for climate adaptation through the Fund’s Climate Action Window. Norway’s 2026 contribution to the ADF and its climate window is currently being disbursed.