The World Bank Group has named Juan Diego Alonso as its new Resident Representative for Equatorial Guinea. This appointment is part of the organization’s ongoing efforts to strengthen leadership at the country level and enhance social and economic outcomes.
Based in Malabo, Alonso will represent several arms of the World Bank Group: the International Bank for Reconstruction and Development (IBRD), the International Development Association (IDA), the International Finance Corporation (IFC), and the Multilateral Investment Guarantee Agency (MIGA).
In his new position, Alonso will focus on building partnerships with government entities, private sector actors, civil society, and other development partners to support Equatorial Guinea’s development agenda. He will also oversee country engagement programs and coordinate the work of the World Bank Group team in Equatorial Guinea.
Alonso, who is from Argentina, joined the World Bank Group in 2006. His previous roles include Senior Country Officer for the Organisation of Eastern Caribbean States and Senior Economist for Global Education Operations. He holds a Ph.D. from Teachers College at Columbia University, a master’s degree from Universidad Torcuato Di Tella, and a bachelor’s degree from Pontificia Universidad Católica Argentina Santa María de los Buenos Aires.
He brings experience in developing country strategies, conducting macroeconomic and social sector analysis, and building partnerships across multiple stakeholders. According to the World Bank Group, Alonso will help advance priorities such as inclusive growth, private sector development, human capital strengthening, and resilience-building in Equatorial Guinea.
“I’m delighted to head the first ever WBG in-country representation since the Republic of Equatorial Guinea joined the first of the institutions of our Group (IBRD, 1970). With a clear mandate to support the Government of Equatorial Guinea in its efforts to reduce poverty and increase shared prosperity in a livable planet, I believe our presence here can make a difference. I look forward to working with many development partners already in the country to help create opportunities for all Equatoguineans,” said Juan Diego Alonso.