Nicola Pontara

Nicola Pontara is the Division Director for the Sahel countries – Burkina Faso, Mali, Niger, and Chad since July 1^st, 2026.

In his new role, Mr. Pontara will lead the strategic dialogue with the Bank's key partners and ensure the coordination of its engagement in the four Sahel countries. Its action will focus on promoting jobs through strategic investments in infrastructure, energy, agriculture, digital connectivity and human capital, to support inclusive and sustainable growth.

An Italian national, he joined the World Bank Group in 2000 as a Young Professional. Most recently, he held the position of Country Manager for Serbia, and previously for Lao PDR in the East Asia and Pacific Region. Prior to that, he was Country Manager for Bolivia in the Latin America and Caribbean Region. He also served as Head of Office and Program Leader based in Juba, South Sudan, in the Africa Region.

Nicola Pontara holds a PhD in Economics from the School of Oriental and African Studies, University of London.