The Fireside Chat: Purpose and Focus
The 1818 Society is pleased to host a Fireside Chat with Makhtar Diop, providing members with a valuable opportunity to engage directly with him. The session will focus on Mr. Diop’s perspectives regarding the achievements of the International Finance Corporation (IFC) and recent efforts to enhance collaboration and synergies across the World Bank Group (WBG). Attendees will have the chance to hear his views and pose questions about these important developments.
About Makhtar Diop
Makhtar Diop began his career with the World Bank in 2001 after serving as Senegal’s Minister of Finance and Economy. Over the years, he has held several prominent positions at the World Bank, including Country Director in Kenya and Brazil, Sector Director, and Director of Strategy and Operations in the Latin America and Caribbean (LAC) region. He later served as Vice President for both the Africa region and Infrastructure before assuming his current role as Managing Director of the IFC in 2021.
IFC’s Strategic Initiatives and Achievements
In his role as Managing Director, Mr. Diop has led significant initiatives aimed at mobilising private sector investment, promoting climate finance, and supporting sustainable development in emerging markets. He has strongly advocated for fostering innovation and driving digital transformation in developing economies. As the private sector arm of the World Bank Group, the IFC integrates investment, advisory services, and asset mobilisation to tackle the world’s most pressing development challenges. Notably, in Fiscal Year 2025, the IFC committed a record $71.7 billion to private companies and financial institutions in developing countries, a substantial increase from $31.5 billion in FY21.
Institutional Changes and Collaboration Across WBG
Alongside increasing its commitments to the private sector, the IFC has undergone a series of institutional changes designed to achieve greater synergies within the WBG. These changes include establishing joint responsibility for country engagement, partnering with the Multilateral Investment and Development Agency (MIDA) under the New Guarantee Platform, and integrating knowledge functions. During the event, Mr. Diop will be invited to share his insights on the benefits and challenges encountered through these collaborative processes.
Event Participation and Q&A
All members are invited to join the conversation with Makhtar Diop. The session will be followed by an open and candid Q&A, where attendees are encouraged to ask questions. To facilitate a smooth discussion, members are encouraged to send their questions in advance to 1818Society@wbgalumni.org; priority will be given to questions submitted ahead of time.
Session Details
This hybrid event will take place in Room L-101 of the IFC Building. For those unable to attend in person, participation is available online via Webex. Members joining virtually will also have the option to submit questions using the Chat function during the session.
RSVP here!
