By Obinna Uballa
The African Development Bank Group (AfDB) has clinched two major international honours for a video showcasing President Akinwumi Adesina’s commitment to gender equality across Africa, a statement from the Bank said.
The 75-second clip, titled African Development Bank President Akinwumi Adesina honored as UN Women #HeForShe champion, won Bronze at the 46th Annual Telly Awards and Gold at the 2025 AVA Digital Awards. Both awards celebrate excellence in video production and digital communications.
The video was first shown during the 2024 United Nations General Assembly as part of a tribute to global champions of gender equality. It highlighted some of Adesina’s initiatives, including the Affirmative Finance Action for Women in Africa (AFAWA), which has disbursed over $1.33 billion through 185 financial institutions to women-led businesses in 45 African countries.
“These recognitions reflect our effort to mainstream gender in everything we do,” said Dr. Beth Dunford, AfDB Vice President for Agriculture, Human and Social Development.
Dr. Jemimah Njuki, AfDB’s Director for Gender, Women and Civil Society, added: “Africa’s women entrepreneurs are the engines of African economies. AFAWA’s impact demonstrates how the Bank is turning demographic potential into economic growth.”
The Telly Awards, which drew over 12,000 entries globally, also recognised major players like Pixar, ESPN, LinkedIn and NATO. The AVA Digital Awards similarly celebrate excellence in digital media and creative communications, the statement noted.
With these latest wins, AfDB communications have now secured 11 international honours over the past decade.
