Brazilian Fernandes new World Bank country manager for Zimbabwe

By Agencies

HARARE: Brazilian national Eneida Fernandes has officially begun her assignment in Zimbabwe as the new World Bank Country Manager.

In the new position, Fernandes’ priorities will be to effectively lead the Bank’s operational programmes and engagement in the arrears clearance and debt resolution efforts, sustain and grow a constructive dialogue with the government, and work alongside key stakeholders and partners to coordinate action and catalyze change.

“I am excited to begin my assignment and look forward to deepening our engagement in the country,” she said.

“Through knowledge, financing, and partnerships, we will continue to work with the Government of Zimbabwe and other stakeholders in line with our mission of creating a world free of poverty on a liveable planet.”

The World Bank country portfolio includes the Zimbabwe Health Sector Development Support Project and Zimbabwe COVID-19 Emergency Response Project.

The portfolio also includes some advisory programs from the International Finance Corporation, namely the Zimbabwe Destination Development Program.

Other sectors in the portfolio are social protection, energy, water, climate, governance, agriculture, and poverty monitoring.

A new country engagement note is also under preparation and will focus on strengthening macroeconomic stability, promoting effective and transparent governance, and building resilience.

Fernandes joined the Bank in 2008 and has since held various positions, with her most recent assignment being Resident Representative for Cabo Verde.

She has more than 20 years of experience in development, spanning operations and management in Africa, Latin America, and the Caribbean.