IMF Appoints Zeine Zeidane to Lead African Department

The International Monetary Fund (IMF) has named Zeine Zeidane as the new Director of its African Department. He will take over from Abebe Aemro Selassie on May 1, 2026. This appointment is important for the economic direction of sub-Saharan African countries.

Mr. Zeidane is from Mauritania. He has more than 20 years of experience in economic policy and international work. He used to be the Prime Minister and Central Bank Governor of Mauritania. This shows his deep understanding of how economies work at a national level.

Before this new role, Mr. Zeidane worked as a Deputy Director in the IMF's Middle East and Central Asia Department. He also served in the African Department before, where he helped shape policies for the region. He worked on changes to how the IMF gives loans to countries and on support during the pandemic.

His appointment underlines the IMF's ongoing commitment to helping African nations. The African Department provides economic advice, funding, and training. Zeidane’s experience is expected to further tailor these services to the needs of the region, focusing on stable economic growth and managing financial challenges.