He dedicated 27 years of his career to the African Development Bank
Global law firm DLA Piper announced the addition of Kalidou Gadio as the new co-chair of its US-Africa Practice.
Gadio, with his extensive background in strategic and economic development projects, will be based in the firm's Washington, DC office, focusing on enhancing the legal services provided between the United States and the African continent.
Gadio’s expertise spans energy, natural resources, and infrastructure projects, where he has represented diverse clients including developers, construction companies, financiers, and sovereign states. His advisory role covers financing structures, risk allocation, and Anti-Money Laundering/Countering the Financing of Terrorism (AML/CFT) measures, as well as dispute resolution involving foreign investments in critical sectors.
Having dedicated 27 years of his career to the African Development Bank, with eight as its general counsel, Gadio has worked on several initiatives such as the establishment of Africa50, an investment bank aimed at fueling Africa's growth with a capital of US$3 billion, and the creation of the African Legal Support Facility to assist African governments in complex negotiations. His efforts have contributed to legislative reforms, capacity building, and facilitating project finance transactions across the continent.
“We have a bold vision to be the preeminent provider of legal services supporting business between the United States and the African continent,” said Naana Frimpong, co-chair of DLA Piper’s US-Africa Practice. “Kalidou is a tremendous talent with a breadth of experience in Africa that is matched by few. Sought after by companies and governments alike for his counsel and insight on a range of issues impacting the continent, he will play a critical role in achieving our vision. We look forward to introducing him to our clients whilst also leveraging our firm’s unrivaled Africa footprint and reputation to support his practice.”
William Minor, the office managing partner of DLA Piper’s Washington, DC office, also praised Gadio’s exceptional career and deep understanding of the continent’s legal and development landscape. “Kalidou has accrued a wealth of experience over an illustrious career and has a deep knowledge of the ways in which we may more meaningfully support our clients with their Africa needs,” Minor added.
