Shelter Afrique Development Bank, ShafDB, has unveiled a new brand identity and logo, marking its transition into a fully-fledged Multilateral Development Bank focused on accelerating housing and urban development across Africa.
The new identity was unveiled on Wednesday, 10 June 2026, during the Bank’s 45th Annual General Meeting in Rabat, Morocco, presided over by Morocco’s Minister of Economy and Finance, Ms. Nadia Fettah.
ShafDB officials said the rebrand signals more than a name change. It reflects an expanded mandate and operational shift as the institution moves from a housing finance company to a multilateral development bank.
“Rebranding means more than a name change. It is about transforming the institution’s operational framework and expanding its role as a development bank. This transition makes the institution more agile and impactful across the entire housing value chain,” said Thierno-Habib Hann, Managing Director and CEO of Shelter Afrique Development Bank.
Over the years, the Bank has pursued a strategic transformation to broaden its financing portfolio and respond to Africa’s growing demand for affordable housing and sustainable urban development. With 44 African member countries, ShafDB said it continues to address the continent’s housing challenges through innovative financing and strategic partnerships.
Chairman of the Bank, H.E. Lionel Zinsou, said the institution’s impact will now be measured by outcomes, not policies.
“Our success will not ultimately be measured by strategies adopted, policies approved, or meetings held. It will be measured by homes financed, cities improved, jobs created, and lives transformed. The reform phase of the institution must now become the delivery phase,” Zinsou said.
The transition into an MDB positions ShafDB alongside Africa’s leading development finance institutions and strengthens its ability to mobilize capital for large-scale projects. The Bank aims to help tackle Africa’s estimated housing deficit of more than 53 million units, which requires about US$1.3 trillion in financing.
“Our vision for the next five years and beyond is to lead the transformation of Africa’s housing sector and urban infrastructure while creating jobs and improving livelihoods across the continent,” Hann added.
The rebranding aligns with the 45th AGM theme: “The Future of Cities: Financing Inclusive, Green, and Resilient Urban Development.” The meeting brought together leaders in housing, finance, infrastructure, and urban development to discuss solutions for Africa’s rapidly urbanizing future.
ShafDB said the new brand identity reflects its renewed ambition to finance inclusive, resilient, and sustainable urban growth at a time when African multilateral institutions are forging stronger alliances to mobilize capital.
“As Africa seeks to shape its own development trajectory, Shelter Afrique Development Bank remains committed to mobilizing resources, fostering partnerships, and delivering innovative financing solutions that support the continent’s housing and urban development aspirations,” the Bank stated.
