Prof. Oramah’s New Roles in Royal African Society and Kenya’s National Infrastructure Fund Strengthen His Global Leadership and Pan-African Influence

Professor Benedict Okey Oramah, GCON, the former President and Chairman of the Board of Directors of the African Export-Import Bank (Afreximbank), has recently been appointed to significant roles that underscore his influence in finance, health, and pan-African development. His tenure at Afreximbank, which spanned a transformative decade, has set the stage for these new recognitions.

Appointment as Patron of the Royal African Society

In a unanimous decision, members of the Royal African Society elected Professor Oramah as the Society’s second Patron during an Extraordinary General Meeting. Established in 1901, the Royal African Society is the UK’s foremost organization dedicated to fostering understanding and partnerships between Africa and the global community. This appointment coincides with the Society’s 125th anniversary, emphasizing its commitment to Africa’s economic transformation and creative industries. Arunma Oteh, Chairperson of the Royal African Society, highlighted that Professor Oramah’s election reflects the Society’s dedication to engaging with leaders shaping Africa’s economic future. His extensive experience and commitment to pan-African cooperation are expected to enhance the Society’s impact significantly.

Role in Kenya’s National Infrastructure Fund

In April 2026, Professor Oramah was appointed by Kenyan President H.E. William Ruto as an independent member of the Governing Council of Kenya’s newly established National Infrastructure Fund (NIF) for a three-year term. The NIF aims to pivot Kenya towards investment-led growth, encouraging private capital inflow while reducing reliance on sovereign borrowing. Professor Oramah joins a council that includes key statutory members such as the Central Bank of Kenya Governor and the Attorney-General, as well as other financial leaders and experts.

Senior Advisor at Africa CDC

Additionally, the Africa Centres for Disease Control and Prevention has appointed Professor Oramah as Senior Advisor on Strategic Financing. This role involves collaborating with senior advisors on international cooperation and strategic partnerships to advance Africa CDC’s health security agenda. His appointment aims to enhance the organization’s capacity to mobilize capital and shape high-level policy across the continent. This role aligns with his previous initiatives at Afreximbank, including the establishment of the African Medical Centre of Excellence in Abuja, where he played a pivotal role in promoting health sovereignty.

Recognition and Legacy

These recent appointments build on the accolades Professor Oramah received upon leaving Afreximbank. Nigerian President Bola Ahmed Tinubu honored him with the Grand Commander of the Order of the Niger (GCON), the nation’s second-highest honor, acknowledging his contributions to Africa and Nigeria, which benefited from over US$52 billion in financing during his tenure. A dinner reception hosted by Woodhall Capital in Lagos in March 2026 celebrated his contributions to African trade and economic development, marking one of several events recognizing his legacy across the continent.

In reflecting on his new roles and ongoing commitment to Africa, Professor Oramah stated that Africa’s development is a multigenerational endeavor. He emphasized the responsibility of leaders to remain engaged in strengthening health financing systems, building inclusive infrastructure, and promoting institutions that narrate Africa’s story globally. He expressed gratitude for the recognitions and reaffirmed his dedication to contributing to Africa’s journey towards sovereignty and self-reliance.

Impact of Leadership at Afreximbank

Professor Oramah served as President and Chairman of Afreximbank from 2015 to 2025, significantly influencing its evolution into one of Africa’s most prominent financial institutions. Under his leadership, Afreximbank advanced numerous continental initiatives, including the Pan-African Payment and Settlement System (PAPSS) and the Intra-African Trade Fair (IATF). He also championed programs aimed at bolstering manufacturing and creative industries across African economies. Currently, he holds the position of Chairman of the Board of Directors for both the Fund for Export Development for Africa (FEDA) and the African Medical Centre of Excellence (AMCE).

Source: www.zawya.com

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