This past week, global development leaders, experts, and policymakers convened in Washington DC for the annual World Bank Group and IMF Spring Meetings (13th –17th April 2026). Development Reimagined was on the ground in Washington DC, convening high-level side events, moderating, and speaking at events, playing a key role in elevating African-led perspectives on economic transformation.
Recap of our engagements:
Advancing IMF and World Bank Voting Power and Quota Reform
Development Reimagined, in conjunction with the African Center for Economic Transformation (ACET), convened a closed-door roundtable discussion bringing together thought leaders, experts, and policymakers to discuss concrete solutions towards reforming the World Bank governance structure and IMF quota system for African sovereigns.
Advancing the Operationalization of the African Monetary Institute (AMI) Through Advocacy and Awareness
Co-hosted with the African Union Commission, DR held a high-level side event to examine AMI’s mandate as a precursor to the African Central Bank (ACB), and its role in strengthening monetary cooperation, supporting macroeconomic convergence, and promoting financial harmonization across the continent. The discussion examined the recent milestones achieved in establishing the AMI, the practical steps required for its timely launch, and its role in advancing Africa’s monetary integration and financial sovereignty. Watch the full event here.
Beyond Financial Indicators: The Narrative Premium in African Credit Risk
Co-hosted with APRM, UNDP, UNECA, ACET, and AfriCatalyst, DR convened a high-level panel discussion to examine the how perceptions, narratives, and non-financial factors influence sovereign risk and cost of capital in Africa. The dialogue emphasized the importance of reframing Africa’s credit narrative through improved data transparency, stronger communication strategies, and enhanced engagement with global rating agencies and investors. Watch the full event here.
Reimagining Africa’s Markets through Intra-Continental Trade
Nkafu Policy Institute and NEPAD convened this high-level panel discussion to explore how the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) can drive integration, competitiveness, and resilience, spotlighting how intra-continental trade can unlock inclusive growth and economic resilience. Our CEO, Ms. Hannah Wanjie Ryder, participated as a speaker and noted that one of the key structural changes within the continent is the need for more manufacturing and becoming a global manufacturing hub, whilst boosting cross-border infrastructure. Find out more about the event here.
Advancing Africa’s Economic Transformation through Stronger Africa-US Private Sector Partnerships.
Organized by AfriCatalyst and the African Union Commission, this event discussed practical pathways for strengthening trade, mobilizing investment, and advancing joint economic priorities between Africa and the US. Ms. Hannah Wanjie Ryder emphasized on the need to look into how the US engages in and views Africa, the cost-of-capital aspect of investing in AAMFIs, enhancing coordination among governments, and the rebranding of Africa in the US, for instance, in terms of African products. Watch the full event here.
Advancing Africa’s Economic Transformation through Inclusive Instant Payment Systems (IIPS).
Ms. Hannah Wanjie Ryder moderated a high-level convening organized by ETTIM and AfricaNenda, to accelerate discussions around cross-border payment integration and unlock Africa’s economic potential. Discussions underscored the role of Africa-led solutions in addressing the continent’s cross-border payment challenges, particularly by building a connected mesh of instant payment systems. It issued a clear call for accelerated regulatory harmonization and coordinated action to eliminate fragmentation and fully realize the AfCFTA’s promise. By strengthening institutional frameworks, enhancing cross-border coordination mechanisms, and prioritizing inclusive design, African countries can dramatically boost intra-African trade, empower small businesses, and drive sustainable economic growth across the continent. Watch the event here.
Development Reimagined remains committed to reimagining and amplifying bold, African-led perspectives that prioritize economic transformation, monetary sovereignty, inclusive financial systems, and equitable global governance reforms. The path forward demands not just dialogue, but decisive action from multilateral institutions and their member states to unlock Africa’s full potential and build a more just and resilient global financial architecture.
Date Published: April 23, 2026
