Hugh Riddell has been appointed as the World Bank Group Country Manager for the Kyrgyz Republic, effective March 3, 2025. This role consolidates leadership across various sectors to support both public and private sector priorities in the country. Riddell will oversee programs of the International Bank for Reconstruction and Development (IBRD)/International Development Association (IDA), International Finance Corporation (IFC), and Multilateral Investment Guarantee Agency (MIGA) in the Kyrgyz Republic. His appointment aims to provide a unified point of contact for accessing World Bank Group products and services, enhancing their ability to address global challenges efficiently.
"The Kyrgyz Republic’s ambitious development strategy aims to enhance the prosperity of its citizens and achieve upper-middle-income status in the next several years. Unified leadership of the Bank Group will enable us to adopt a more integrated approach in the projects we support, positioning us as a more effective partner for the government, the private sector, and ultimately the citizens of this country," said Hugh Riddell.
The World Bank Group is executing a five-year Country Partnership Framework with Kyrgyzstan from FY2024-28. Priority sectors identified include energy, water, and agriculture. The institution focuses on improving education and healthcare systems, food security, enabling private sector investments and job creation, as well as strengthening institutions to foster societal prosperity.
This move towards joint country representation marks an important step for building a stronger World Bank Group presence. The Kyrgyz Republic joins other offices transitioning to having a single Country Manager or Resident Representative overseeing IBRD, IDA, IFC, MIGA activities.
Before assuming his current position, Hugh Riddell served as World Bank Country Manager for Kyrgyzstan since May 2024. He led policy dialogue efforts and managed program delivery. His previous roles include serving as Country Manager for Malawi and holding various positions in Washington D.C., Afghanistan, and East Africa.