African Development Fund backs climate resilience and essential infrastructure in Ethiopia and South Sudan

The African Development Fund has approved new financing to strengthen climate resilience, expand sanitation infrastructure and increase agricultural production in Ethiopia and South Sudan. The investment targets food security, water access and sustainable development while supporting long-term economic resilience in two climate-vulnerable countries.

The African Development Fund (ADF) has approved financing for development projects in Ethiopia and South Sudan aimed at improving climate resilience, expanding sanitation services and increasing agricultural productivity, according to official disclosures. The funding package supports infrastructure and community-based initiatives designed to strengthen water security, improve public health outcomes and enhance food production in regions facing increasing climate-related challenges.

The investments are intended to address multiple development priorities simultaneously by improving access to safe sanitation, reinforcing climate adaptation measures and supporting more resilient agricultural systems. In Ethiopia, the programme focuses on strengthening sanitation infrastructure and improving resilience to climate impacts, while in South Sudan the funding is directed toward increasing agricultural production and enhancing food security. Together, the projects seek to reduce vulnerability to extreme weather events while supporting sustainable livelihoods and essential public services.

The funding is significant for governments, development agencies, engineering firms and agricultural stakeholders operating across East Africa. Improved sanitation infrastructure can lower public health risks and increase economic productivity, while investments in climate-resilient agriculture are expected to strengthen local food systems and reduce dependence on emergency assistance. The programme also aligns with broader regional priorities to improve climate adaptation and sustainable resource management.

For businesses and investors, the initiative signals continued multilateral financing for infrastructure, water management, agriculture and climate resilience projects across Africa. The programme is expected to generate opportunities for engineering, construction, environmental services and agricultural value-chain participants involved in donor-funded development projects. The African Development Fund is the concessional financing arm of the African Development Bank Group, providing grants and low-cost financing to eligible African countries for projects that promote sustainable economic growth, poverty reduction and climate resilience. Through these investments, the institution continues to support long-term infrastructure development and economic stability across the continent.