OREANDA-NEWS. The African Development Bank Group was named the African Organization of the Year 2016 by the African Achievers Awards. In a ceremony held in Abuja, Nigeria’s capital on Friday, July 8, 2016, the Bank was lauded for its immense contribution towards the economic growth of the continent and its commitment to raising standards of living in Africa.

Other recipients included the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation, Nigerian Philanthropist Chief Dumo Lulu Briggs, globally renowned Gospel Singer Sinach, and Sierra Leone’s Attorney General and Minister of Justice, Joseph Fitzgerald Kamara for Excellence in Leadership.

In 2015, President Jakaya Kikwete and music icon Diamond Platnumz of Tanzania, Bishop Desmond Tutu, One.org and SABC Africa received awards in various categories.

Speaking on behalf of the AfDB President, Akinwumi Adesina, Nigeria Country Director Ousmane Dore noted that Bank is humbled by the recognition of its efforts pledged to renew its commitment to follow through with its delivery priorities tagged the High 5s – to Light up and power Africa, Feed Africa, Industrialize Africa, Integrate Africa and Improve the quality of life for the people of Africa.