The University of The Gambia (UTG) has honoured Dr. Akinwumi Adesina, former President of the African Development Bank (AfDB) Group, by renaming its Faculty of Agriculture after him in recognition of his contributions to agricultural development and food security across Africa.
The faculty will now be known as the Dr. Akinwumi Adesina School of Agriculture and Environmental Services, following its formal unveiling by Gambian President Adama Barrow at a ceremony held on Wednesday.
University authorities said the decision reflects Adesina’s transformative role in reshaping Africa’s agricultural landscape and advancing sustainable development during his decade-long tenure at the AfDB.
Between 2015 and 2025, Adesina led the continental bank through a period of major reform and expansion, introducing the flagship High 5 development priorities.
The framework focused on expanding access to energy, boosting food production, accelerating industrialisation, promoting regional integration, and improving quality of life. AfDB records indicate that the initiatives reached over 535 million people across the continent.
Under his leadership, the bank’s capital base grew to $318 billion, while earning international recognition for strong governance, transparency, and financial stability.
Adesina’s agricultural legacy is closely associated with the Feed Africa Strategy, which significantly increased food production and supported more than 104 million Africans.
In The Gambia, AfDB-funded projects, including the construction of a cross-border bridge linking the country with Senegal, have enhanced trade, mobility, and regional cooperation.
UTG disclosed that approval for the renaming was formally conveyed through the Ministry of Higher Education in a letter dated November 27, 2025, signed by the Minister, Professor Pierre Gomez.
The minister commended Adesina’s visionary leadership and innovation-driven approach to development.
Gomez also highlighted the impact of the Technologies for African Agricultural Transformation (TAAT) programme, noting its role in modernising farming systems, strengthening climate resilience, and supporting smallholder farmers across Africa.
According to the university, the renaming is intended to inspire students and researchers while reinforcing the importance of African-led solutions and excellence in agriculture and environmental studies.
Responding to the honour, Adesina expressed gratitude to the Gambian government and UTG’s leadership, describing the recognition as deeply meaningful. He also indicated his interest in visiting the institution to see the newly renamed school.
In 2023, Adesina received The Gambia’s highest national honour, the Grand Commander of the Order of the Republic, in recognition of his contributions to national and continental development.
