Mamadou Biteye

Senegalese economist and advocate for Africa’s economic transformation, contributing to poverty reduction strategies.

Mamadou Biteye (b. 1970) is a Senegalese economist and policy expert whose work has reshaped Africa’s approach to economic development. Educated at Cheikh Anta Diop University and the London School of Economics, he served as Senegal’s Minister of Economy and Finance from 2000 to 2004, implementing policies that reduced poverty by 15% through targeted social programs. In 2005, he became the Director of the African Development Bank’s Governance Department, where he championed infrastructure investments and anti-corruption measures. His research on the "Africa’s Structural Transformation Report" highlighted the need for diversifying economies beyond natural resources. Mamadou’s advocacy for youth employment led to the creation of the YouthConnekt Africa initiative, connecting 1 million young people to job opportunities. He has authored "The Future of Work in Africa" (2018), a seminal text on labor market reforms. Recognized by the Economist as one of Africa’s top 100 influencers, his work bridges academia and policy, often collaborating with institutions like the Brookings Institution. Mamadou’s current focus on climate-smart agriculture and renewable energy aligns with the UN’s Sustainable Development Goals, positioning him as a key figure in Africa’s sustainable growth narrative.