AfDB BRIDGE Project launches to boost women’s leadership

The African Development Bank (AfDB) and United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) have launched the BRIDGE Project to strengthen inclusive governance and women’s leadership in Guinea-Bissau, South Sudan, and The Gambia. This two-year initiative, unveiled on 24 March 2026 in Addis Ababa, targets governance gaps in these transition countries experiencing political fragility.

Funding Structure and Implementation

The BRIDGE Project, formally known as Building Resilience and Inclusive Development for Governance and Equality, receives funding through the AfDB’s Transition Support Facility (TSF) Targeted Support Window. Implementation operates through the Africa Facility to Support Inclusive Transitions (AFSIT), a joint African Union Commission-UNDP programme.

The initiative focuses on enhancing gender-responsive governance within justice systems whilst boosting women’s representation in decision-making roles. It addresses capacity gaps, gender inequality, and limited stakeholder involvement that characterise fragile states.

UN Assistant Secretary-General Ahunna Eziakonwa described the project as an investment in women as architects of accountable governance. AfDB’s Jemimah Njuki, Director of the Gender, Women and Civil Society Department, emphasised its role in fortifying justice systems and expanding leadership opportunities for women.

Strategic Focus Areas

Guinea-Bissau, South Sudan, and The Gambia represent complex political transitions requiring targeted intervention. The BRIDGE Project delivers support to these nations, fostering partnerships for scaled impact whilst promoting social cohesion through transparent, accountable governance structures.

H.E. Ambassador Bankole Adeoye, AUC Commissioner for Political Affairs, Peace and Security, described the initiative as African-led action addressing transition challenges. The launch timing during Women’s Month underscores its commitment to sustainable development through inclusive governance.

Investment Outlook

For development finance professionals, the BRIDGE Project signals stabilising forces in high-risk markets. Stronger governance frameworks and women’s leadership create predictable environments for private capital deployment. These improvements enable job creation and economic integration whilst building resilient institutions.

As these countries establish more inclusive governance structures, opportunities in infrastructure development and agribusiness are expected to expand. Development finance professionals should monitor progress, as inclusive transitions often precede foreign direct investment inflows and generate sustainable returns in previously challenging markets.

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