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Ex-BBC boss moves to African Development Bank

By Amina Wako September 8th, 2021 2 min read

The former head of BBC Africa bureau BBC has been appointed as Director of Communication and External Relations for the African Development Bank Group.

In a statement announcing the appointment, ADB noted Mugera will assume office on October 1, 2021.

“Mugera, a Kenyan national, brings extensive experience to this role. He is a seasoned journalist and media manager with over 20 years of expertise working internationally,” the bank announced.

Accepting his appointment, Mugera stated, “It is an honour to work for the African Development Bank Group and support its vision for the continent. This is an institution that is leading Africa’s effort to transform itself and make a real difference to the lives of millions of its people. The Bank has the talent, the expertise, knowledge and the story that needs to be told across Africa and to a global audience.”

According to ADB, under his new role, Mugera will work towards building financial and political support for the bank, and strengthening its role as a global thought leader on Africa’s most pressing challenges.

He will also be charged with the duty of managing corporate communications and external relations with key stakeholders.

In addition, Mugera will also be in charge of the bank’s messaging and global strategic media relations.

ADB President Dr. Akinwumi Adesina welcomed the addition of Mugera to the organization, adding that the bank was privileged to have a person of respected calibre on board.

“The African Development Bank Group is at the heart of the continent’s social economic development. Mr. Mugera will support the Bank Group’s vision and outreach effort to make the priorities, activities and accomplishments of the Bank known by both internal and external audiences. He is a highly respected and motivated media professional, with a solid track record in journalism and leadership,” Dr .Adesina said.

A memo sent to journalists working at the BBC indicated that Mugera’s contribution was vital in the growth of the media house in the region and that he tenure would come to an end by end of September

“Solomon joined the Swahili Service in 1998 as a producer and leaves us as the head of a region with more than 500 staff. Over the years has come to embody BBC Africa. He is one of our highest-profile leaders and a prominent figure for the BBC World Service – we will miss him hugely,” the memo read in part.

Before joining BBC Mugera had a short stint at Kenya Broadcasting Corporation (KBC).