In a remarkable gesture of gratitude and recognition, the Republic of Chad has honoured Professor Benedict Oramah, President and Chairman of the African Export-Import Bank (Afreximbank), with one of its highest national distinctions, the Commander of the National Order of Chad. 

The award, presented by President Mahamat Idriss Déby Itno, acknowledges Oramah’s outstanding leadership and the Bank’s unwavering support during a period when Chad was facing political and economic uncertainty.

At a time when many international financial institutions withdrew from the country amid the 2022 socio-political crisis, Afreximbank under Oramah’s stewardship remained committed, continuing to finance key projects that are now central to Chad’s economic recovery.

President Déby Itno hailed Oramah’s courage and commitment: “ When other international lenders fled at the height of the unfortunate socio-political conflicts, Afreximbank stood firmly behind our country, continuing to push vital investments that now underpin the rapid socioeconomic recovery of our nation.”

The honour, conferred under the Ministry of Finance, Budget, Economy, Planning and International Cooperation, reflects Oramah’s significant contribution not only to Chad’s recovery but also to the broader African economic landscape. The Commander rank within the National Order of Chad is a rare recognition reserved for exceptional service and transformative leadership.

Accepting the award, Professor Oramah expressed humility and renewed commitment. “This honour is not just a recognition of my efforts, but a testament to the collective resolve of Afreximbank and its partners to transform Chad’s economy and empower its people,” He said. “While I am deeply humbled by this honour, it is a call to duty. It was a reminder to the Bank to do even more to accelerate the structural transformation of the Chadian and the wider African economies.”

Chad formally became an Afreximbank member state during the 36th African Union Summit. Since then, the Bank has pledged major investments in the country’s critical sectors, including agriculture and livestock, both key pillars of Chad’s economy, to help drive sustainable growth and diversification.

Through trade facilitation, project finance, and institutional strengthening, Afreximbank has solidified its role as a cornerstone of Chad’s development strategy, reaffirming its long-term commitment to building a more resilient and prosperous Africa.