Nairobi, Kenya — Shelter Afrique Development Bank (ShafDB), the Pan-African multilateral development bank focused on housing, urban development and related infrastructure, has elected former Benin Prime Minister Lionel Zinsou as Chairman of the Board of Directors, with Said Athman Mtwana appointed Vice Chairman.
The elections were concluded during the Bank’s 149th Meeting of the Board of Directors held on 11 December 2025, marking a significant leadership transition as ShafDB deepens its transformation into a fully-fledged Pan-African Development Bank.
Mr. Zinsou brings to the chairmanship decades of experience across public policy, global finance and private equity. A distinguished economist and seasoned investment banker, he previously served as Prime Minister of the Republic of Benin (2015–2016).
Accepting the appointment, Mr. Zinsou said the Bank stood at a pivotal moment in addressing Africa’s housing and urbanisation challenges.
“I am honoured to assume the Chairmanship of ShafDB at this pivotal moment in its transformation. Across our continent, the demand for dignified, affordable housing and vibrant urban environments is both urgent and inspiring. Together with my fellow Directors, I am committed to steering the Bank with clarity, purpose, and ambition; ensuring that our investments strengthen communities, unlock economic opportunity, and reflect Africa’s boundless potential.”
Mr. Mtwana, who represents Group 1 Member States, brings strong expertise in urban development policy, project planning and built-environment economics, alongside extensive experience in senior government roles focused on national housing and land policy.
“It is a privilege to serve as Vice Chairman of a Bank whose mission speaks directly to the aspirations of millions of African families. I look forward to working closely with the Board and Management to deepen ShafDB’s impact, advance innovative urban development solutions, and uphold the governance needed to deliver lasting, inclusive growth across our Member States,” he said.
Mr. Mtwana holds a Master’s degree in Urban and Regional Planning and a Bachelor of Arts in Building Economics from the University of Nairobi.
ShafDB Managing Director Thierno-Habib Hann welcomed the new Board leadership while commending the outgoing Chairperson Dr. Chii Akporji and Vice Chairman Mr. Ahmed Belayat for their service.
“We warmly welcome Mr. Lionel Zinsou and Mr. Said Athman Mtwana to their new leadership roles at Shelter Afrique Development Bank. Their combined depth of experience in global finance, public policy, and urban development comes at a defining moment in the Bank’s evolution. As we deepen our transformation into a fully-fledged Pan-African Development Bank, their guidance will be instrumental in advancing innovative housing finance solutions, strengthening partnerships, and accelerating inclusive, climate-resilient urban development across our Member States,” Mr. Hann said.
He added that the outgoing leaders’ “principled leadership and strategic stewardship have laid a strong foundation for the next phase of the Bank’s growth and impact.”
The leadership transition underscores ShafDB’s renewed commitment to financing affordable housing, sustainable cities and inclusive urban development across Africa. With its newly elected Chairman and Vice Chairman at the helm, the Bank is positioning itself to scale impact, mobilise capital and deliver climate-resilient urban solutions aligned with the aspirations of African communities.
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