With an impressive career spanning over three decades and multiple continents, Ibrahima Cheikh Diong has become a formidable leader in the realms of finance, infrastructure development, and climate risk management. Appointed in 2020 as the United Nations Assistant Secretary-General and Director General of the African Union’s African Risk Capacity (ARC) Group, Diong has set himself apart as a pioneer in climate disaster insurance and strategic advisory for African nations. His leadership is now taking another leap as he prepares to head the United Nations’ newly established Fund for Responding to Loss and Damage (FRLD) caused by climate change.
Diong’s journey began in the 1980s, with his academic pursuit of civil engineering in China at Hohai University, where he gained a deep understanding of infrastructure development. His early work focused on improving water and irrigation systems in Senegal, setting the stage for his long-term focus on solving complex issues in public infrastructure. Upon returning to Senegal, he expanded his experience across various sectors, from consulting to key leadership roles in government, including serving as Permanent Secretary of Energy and Director General of International Cooperation.
What truly distinguishes Diong is his ability to traverse public, private, and international development sectors with ease. His tenure at prestigious organizations like Booz Allen Hamilton and the World Bank reflects his wide-ranging expertise. As a Senior Africa Banker at BNP Paribas, he was instrumental in raising finance for vital infrastructure projects across Africa, including power plants, airports, and other key developments, showcasing his capacity to tackle large-scale challenges head-on.
In his advisory role to the President of Senegal, Diong’s strategic vision and financial acumen were crucial in securing investments from emerging markets like China and bolstering Senegal’s infrastructure development. His efforts contributed to the formation of Senegal Airlines, though the airline later folded due to financial strain, illustrating the complexities of state-backed enterprises.
Diong’s move to the African Risk Capacity (ARC) Group in 2020 marked a significant shift in his focus toward climate change resilience. Under his leadership, the ARC has been instrumental in providing insurance coverage for African countries to mitigate the effects of extreme weather events like droughts and floods. He has not only helped to expand the capacity of governments to respond to these disasters but has also been a key advisor in preventive measures, ensuring that African nations are better equipped to face climate-related challenges.
In his new role as the head of the FRLD, Diong will guide efforts to support low-income developing countries most affected by climate change. His experience in raising funds for large-scale infrastructure projects and advising governments on disaster preparedness makes him uniquely suited for this crucial position. As the FRLD prepares to launch its first projects next year, Diong’s leadership will be pivotal in shaping the fund’s impact on global climate resilience.
Fluent in English, French, Mandarin, and Wolof, Diong’s global outlook and ability to engage with diverse stakeholders have made him a versatile leader. His cross-border expertise spans continents, from Africa to the U.S., Europe, and Asia, making him a truly international figure in finance, infrastructure, and climate change management.
