A Landmark Tribute to African Agricultural Leadership
The University of The Gambia has officially renamed its School of Agriculture and Environmental Sciences in honor of Dr. Akinwumi Ayodeji Adesina, one of Africa’s most influential development economists and agricultural reformers. The newly named Dr. Akinwumi A. Adesina School of Agriculture and Environmental Sciences stands as a permanent symbol of recognition for Adesina’s visionary leadership and transformative contributions to agriculture, food security, and economic development across Africa.
The unveiling ceremony was led by President Adama Barrow, President of the Republic of The Gambia, who described the renaming as a historic and symbolic moment for the country’s higher education sector and agricultural future. The occasion celebrated Adesina’s legacy while reinforcing The Gambia’s commitment to sustainable agriculture, regional integration, and youth empowerment.
Why The Gambia Honored Dr. Akinwumi Adesina
Dr. Adesina is widely recognized for redefining Africa’s development narrative through agriculture-led growth. His leadership philosophy centers on the idea that agriculture is not a subsistence activity but a viable business capable of generating wealth, jobs, and industrial growth.
The decision to rename the school reflects the alignment between Adesina’s lifelong mission and The Gambia’s national priorities in food security, climate resilience, and human capital development. By associating the institution with his name, the University of The Gambia aims to inspire future generations of students, researchers, and policymakers.
Adesina’s Impact as President of the African Development Bank
Dr. Adesina served as President of the African Development Bank (AfDB) Group from 2015 to 2025, a decade widely regarded as one of the most transformative periods in the institution’s history.
The High 5 Development Agenda
Under his leadership, the AfDB launched the High 5s, a strategic framework designed to accelerate Africa’s development. These priorities include:
Light Up and Power Africa
Feed Africa
Integrate Africa
Industrialise Africa
Improve the Quality of Life of the People of Africa
This development agenda delivered measurable results across multiple sectors, impacting the lives of over 535 million people across the continent. The approach emphasized inclusive growth, sustainability, and regional cooperation.
Record-Breaking Institutional Growth
During Adesina’s tenure, the African Development Bank experienced unprecedented institutional expansion. The Bank’s capital base grew significantly, reaching the highest level in its history. The institution also earned global recognition for transparency, governance excellence, and financial stability, while maintaining a top-tier credit rating from international agencies.
Transforming Agriculture and Food Security in Africa
One of Adesina’s most defining achievements has been his commitment to agricultural transformation. Through AfDB initiatives, millions of farmers gained access to improved seeds, modern technologies, financing, and markets.
Feed Africa Strategy
The Feed Africa Strategy focused on transforming agriculture into a competitive, wealth-creating sector. The initiative strengthened food production systems, reduced import dependency, and enhanced resilience to climate change. As a result, over 100 million people across Africa benefited from improved food security and agricultural productivity.
Empowering Smallholder Farmers
Adesina consistently championed the role of smallholder farmers, youth, and women in agricultural value chains. His policies promoted innovation, mechanization, and private-sector participation, helping agriculture become a driver of job creation and economic opportunity.
A Lasting Legacy in The Gambia
Dr. Adesina’s influence extends deeply into The Gambia’s development landscape. One of the most notable achievements under his leadership at AfDB was the financing of a landmark infrastructure project connecting The Gambia and Senegal.
Strengthening Regional Integration
The bridge linking the two countries has significantly reduced travel time, improved trade flows, and enhanced regional integration. For Gambians, the project represents the realization of a national aspiration dating back to the country’s independence era.
This infrastructure investment continues to play a vital role in boosting economic activity, tourism, and cross-border cooperation.
Official Recognition and Institutional Appreciation
The formal decision to rename the school was communicated by the Government of The Gambia through the Ministry of Higher Education, Research, Science and Technology. The University highlighted Adesina’s exceptional leadership, policy innovation, and long-standing commitment to Africa’s development.
The institution emphasized that the naming is not merely ceremonial but aspirational—designed to motivate students and faculty to pursue excellence, innovation, and service to Africa.
Adesina’s Response to the Honor
In response, Dr. Adesina expressed deep humility and gratitude to President Adama Barrow, the Government of The Gambia, and the University leadership. He described the recognition as a rare and meaningful honor that immortalizes his lifelong work in agricultural transformation.
He also acknowledged the collective efforts of the university’s governing council, academic leadership, and faculty members, noting that education and knowledge remain central to Africa’s future prosperity.
Previous National Honor from The Gambia
This latest recognition builds upon earlier honors bestowed on Dr. Adesina by The Gambia. In 2023, President Barrow awarded him the nation’s highest national honor, recognizing his outstanding contributions to national development and African progress.
Together, these honors reflect The Gambia’s appreciation for leadership that delivers tangible results and long-term impact.
Why This Renaming Matters for African Education
Renaming the School of Agriculture and Environmental Sciences after Dr. Adesina sends a powerful message about the role of education in shaping Africa’s future. It highlights the importance of:
Agricultural innovation and research
Climate-smart farming practices
Youth and talent development
Regional and continental cooperation
The school is now positioned as a center of excellence aligned with Africa’s development priorities and global sustainability goals.
