IMF appoints Zeine Zeidane as African Department director
By Faith Lagat, April 3, 2026The International Monetary Fund (IMF) has appointed Mauritanian economist Zeine Zeidane as the new Director of its African Department (AFR), Managing Director Kristalina Georgieva announced on Friday, April 3, 2026.
Zeidane will succeed Abebe Aemro Selassie, who is set to retire on May 1, 2026, after serving a decade in the role and completing 32 years of service at the Fund.
“I have informed the Executive Board of my intention to appoint Zeine Zeidane as the Director of the African Department,” Georgieva said.
“Zeine will bring deep institutional knowledge, sound judgment, and strong policymaking experience to the department as it continues to respond to sub-Saharan Africa’s growing demands for tailored policy advice, financing, and capacity development.”
Georgieva later reinforced the announcement on X, noting that Zeidane’s experience will be instrumental in advancing IMF engagement with Africa.
Extensive experience in Africa and global policy
Zeidane brings over two decades of experience in macroeconomic policymaking and international economic cooperation.
He currently serves as Deputy Director in the IMF’s Middle East and Central Asia Department, overseeing work with major Gulf economies and helping establish the IMF Regional Office in Riyadh in 2024.
Previously, he served as Deputy Director in the African Department, managing some of the region’s largest programs and shaping policies such as reforms to concessional lending facilities and the Catastrophe Containment and Relief Trust (CCRT) during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Before joining the IMF in 2012, Zeidane held top economic positions in Mauritania, including prime minister, Governor of the Central Bank, and Economic Advisor to the president.
He also gained experience at the World Bank and in commercial banking, providing him with a comprehensive understanding of policy design and international collaboration.
Zeidane holds a PhD in Applied Mathematics and a postgraduate degree in Macroeconomics from the University of Nice, France.
Leadership amid Africa’s economic challenges
Georgieva praised Zeidane’s “calm and measured approach,” highlighting his ability to address difficult and sensitive challenges.
Sub-Saharan Africa continues to face post-pandemic recovery, debt sustainability, climate vulnerabilities, and the need for inclusive growth amid rapid population increases and technological change.
Under Zeidane, the African Department is expected to deliver responsive programmes tailored to the diverse needs of member countries, from fragile states to emerging reformers.
His leadership is anticipated to strengthen partnerships, promote sound policies, and support sustainable, resilient development across the region.