Christophe Lecourtier Officially Assumes Leadership of the AFD
Christophe Lecourtier Appointed to Lead the French Development Agency
Christophe Lecourtier officially assumed his role as head of the French Development Agency (AFD) starting May 11, 2026.
His appointment signifies a significant change in the leadership of the institution, which plays a central role in funding development and international cooperation policies, particularly in Africa and partner countries.
An Experienced Diplomat at the Helm
Currently serving as the French Ambassador to Morocco since 2022, Christophe Lecourtier succeeds Rémy Rioux, who led AFD for ten years.
Lecourtier’s diplomatic and institutional career, marked by several responsibilities both in France and internationally, is viewed as an asset for steering the agency’s strategic directions in a changing global context.
A Key Player in Development Financing
The AFD is one of the key instruments of France’s cooperation policy, engaging in areas such as infrastructure, ecological transition, health, education, and economic development.
Under Lecourtier’s leadership, the institution is set to continue and intensify its interventions in an environment increasingly shaped by climate and economic challenges.
Priorities Focused on Global Transitions
The new leadership will need to facilitate the acceleration of projects related to energy transition, climate resilience, and inclusive development.
The AFD also aims to strengthen its partnerships with Southern countries by supporting impactful restructuring projects that yield significant social and economic benefits.
A Continuity in International Action
This appointment aligns with the ongoing strategic directions of the agency, while also ushering in a new phase of governance.
The objective remains to enhance the effectiveness of funding and adapt interventions to current global challenges, particularly in Africa and priority cooperation regions.
