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Professor Callisto Madavo

Professor Callisto Madavo

October 14th, 1942 - January 12th, 2017

Biography


Professor Callisto Madavo was born in Zimuto, Zimbabwe on October 14, 1942. He joined the World Bank as a Young Professional in 1969, immediately after completing his PhD in Economics at the University of Notre Dame in the U.S. state of Indiana.

In his 35-year career at the Bank, Callisto was instrumental in shaping and supporting the World Bank's vision for Africa's development and championed critical initiatives, including the early HIV/AIDs program to address the serious threat of the pandemic, especially in Africa. He was also passionate about promoting human and institutional capacity development, good governance, and poverty reduction; including a special focus on supporting countries coming out of conflict..

Calisto held numerous senior positions at the Bank, including Vice President of the Africa Region (1996 – 2004) and Special Advisor to President James Wolfensohn (2004-2005); and became the first African to be an Operational Vice President.

Callisto distinguished himself as an intellectual who was very passionate about the development of Africa and Africans. As Vice President of the Africa region, he presided over the launch of the first Africa Regional Strategy that articulated the World Bank’s vision for Africa’s development. He also initiated some of the most innovative approaches in Bank operations including the Poverty Reduction Strategy Papers (PRSPs) that gave rise to the Poverty Reduction Support Credits (PRSCs). The PRSP/PRSC became the main vehicle of participatory engagement with clients in Africa and the hallmarks of real partnerships and country-led development that put clients at the center and gave them greater voice in the decision making process.

He was also very passionate about capacity development of both staff and clients. He mentored generations of staff and leaders at the World Bank who testify to his energy, humility, integrity and competence. He was able to combine inclusive consultation and real time decision-making, and provide visionary inspiration. He led by direct interaction and by example.

After retiring in 2005, he remained steadfastly committed to the cause of his career, serving as a fellow at the Woodrow Wilson Center for International Studies and on the boards of several Non Governmental Organizations (NGOs) including Africare, the International HIV/AIDs Alliance, and the Academy for Educational Development, and consulting for international organizations, including the African Development Bank and UNAIDS.
For the past ten years, Callisto enjoyed teaching as a professor at Georgetown University's Edmund Walsh School of Foreign Service, where he developed original courses on African development and China in Africa. At the time of his death, he was the Chair of the African Capacity Building Foundation.

Callisto leaves an impressive legacy. He made lasting contributions both to the institution and to those whom we serve in the world's poorest countries. We will miss his tireless belief in our clients' ability to overcome even the most difficult challenges, his passion for development, and his dedication to staff.

Many Bank staff today will continue to draw on his lessons and inspiration, and his presence will not be lessened by his death.

He is survived and celebrated by his beloved wife of 37 years, Kathleen Madavo of Potomac, Maryland; devoted daughters, Sara Madavo Jean-Jacques (Michael Jean-Jacques) of New York, New York, and Emily Madavo of Washington, DC; and six brothers, three sisters, and many nieces and nephews across the globe.

In memory of Callisto: in lieu of flowers, the Madavo family would welcome donations to promote one of his passions, girls’ education in Africa via the Dunstan Wai Memorial Foundation (DWMF) an existing charity which is dedicated to that mission. Checks payable to DWMF should be sent to Victoria Jaycox, 3845 Macomb St NW, Washington DC 20016 or dropped into the designated box at the event. For further information or questions please contact Kim Jaycox, Chair of the Board of DWMF at [email protected]
For information on DWMF visit http://www.dunstanwaifoundation.org

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About

Name Professor Callisto Madavo
Date of Birth October 14th, 1942
Date of Death January 12th, 2017
Home Town Zimbabwe, Masvingo Province, ZW 
Other City Dolphin Coast, KZN, ZA 
In Memoriam Donation Dunstan Wai Memorial Foundation (DWMF)
Milestone

Milestones

1969 University of Notre Dame, Indiana, PhD in Economics
1969 Young Professional, World Bank
1996 - 2004 Vice President of the Africa Region, World Bank
2004 - 2005 Special Advisor to President James Wolfensohn, World Bank
2005 - 2017 Professor, Georgetown University
2014 - 2017 Chair, African Capacity Building Foundation

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Raila Odinga published a tribute .

TRIBUTE TO PROF CALLISTO MADAVO:
Prof. Callisto Madavo’s tenure at the World Bank especially as the Vice President of the Africa Region coincided with one of the Continent’s most momentous periods. The continent was going through monumental and disruptive political and economic changes as Prof Madavo took the position of vice president.
Many African countries were struggling to put behind the legacy of the single party state and embracing political pluralism, liberalization of the economy and structural adjustment programs that had huge effects on sectors like health, education and infrastructure.
Prof Madavo helped steer the continent through these changes by originating policies and finances at the World Bank and making appropriate linkages with African political leaders and civil society to enable them buy into policies.
His passing has robbed the Continent of a visionary and a faithful son who felt Africa’s pain, celebrated its successes and believed firmly in it capacity to rise. He was in his own way one of the fathers of what is now known as the African renaissance. We have lost a giant.
Raila Odinga.
Prime Minister of Kenya
2008-2013

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Ng'andu Magande published a tribute .

My sincere condolences to Kathy and the children on the passing away of Callisto, a lovable specimen of humanity. I learnt a lot during my many years of association with the professor. Waiting by the Victoria Falls to sign the revived SEED Project Agreement in 2004, Callisto whispered to me that the water in the Zambezi River has only one colour and he wished the people of our two countries could learn to coexist and seek each others' advice. Elderman Robert (Zimbabwe) had just chided young Levy (Zambia) for some strong comments on democracy. he encouraged me to seek his word whenever I had issues with the WB. He shared his retirement plans and I thought I had lost him. Only to find ourselves in the global think tank formed by the Center for Global Development (CGD) in 2012 that made proposals on the future of the IDA. Callisto was still lobbying for more funds for the poor regardless of the status of the country of their residence. I will miss a great mentor on technical and political issues.

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Richard Martin published a tribute .

I had the most rewarding professional relationship with Callisto that I have had with anyone. He was mission leader for the Lusaka Squatter Upgrading and Sites and Services Project, that Robert Macnamara had agreed to on a visit to Zambia in 1972. We rushed it through in six months from a scoping visit, through appraisal through project start: I was in charge of project preparation from the Zambian side, and he from the Bank. We worked closely together to make sure that each side got what it wanted irrespective of policies that each side had. On project supervision missions his skills as a diplomat and his enthusiasm for participatory development helped all of us to achieve what we wanted. But it wasn't just work. We went out regularly to enjoy the vibe of local bars and Zairean (as it was then) music. He entertained us royally at the Intercontinental Hotel, and would come round for lazy Sunday lunches Later, as Zimbabwe became independent he would share his inner conflicts about being pressured into accepting high office in the new government, but having to refuse, and the difficulty of being so distant from his family. I shall forever treasure his wit, wisdom, generosity and good judgment. It was a real privilege to have known him, and my warm condolences go to Kathy and his children.

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Rogier Van Den Brink published a tribute .

https://soundcloud.com/rogier-van-den-brink/callistos-on-the-move

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Tsitsi G. Madzongwe published a tribute .

My uttermost respect and condolences to Dr. Calisto's family. May your insipiration and compassion arise for the next generation. I will always treasure your knowledge and vision for Africa and particularly Zimbabwe.

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Casey Gary published a tribute .

I extend my deepest condolences to Professor Madavo, his family, his colleagues at the World Bank and his Georgetown Family. I was a student in Professor Madavo's China in Africa course several years ago. His command of and passion for the subject matter and for his students was unparalleled. He both inspired me to higher and equipped me with knowledge and the keys to access it; I still reference his notes today and reflect on his success and the brilliance and drive that got him there. He was an icon whom I am grateful to have learned from. Thank you, Professor Madavo.

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Vincent Rague published a tribute .

My memories of Callisto are those of a boss that was always calm, reassuring, positive and passionate about Africa's development. He is gone too soon. Fare thee well and may God keep you in His warm embrace.

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Katherine Marshall published a tribute .

Warm memories and sad reflections on Calisto's far too early death. He was a courageous pioneer and a lover of Africa. He brought hope and vision to his work on issues large and small. And his Georgetown University career brought his experience and knowledge to many students. My condolences to his family.

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Madge Myers published a tribute .

Sincerest condolences.

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Rev. Isaac M.t. Mwase published a tribute .

Dr. Madavo's work to connect the Zimbabwean diaspora to the home front will go on through the Zimbabwe Diaspora Network North America (ZDNNA). It was through ZDNNA that I came to appreciate his stellar leadership qualities. May he rest in peace.

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Mary Barton-Dock published a tribute .

Cal was a terrific person to work with and we have missed him. He had a great sense of humor, loved to dance and took his job seriously. One of my favorite memories was flying to the south of Chad with him to lay the first stone of the Chad/Cameroon pipeline. He has his qualms about President Deby, and he said "You know as soon as we lay this first stone, Deby will do what he wants with the oil revenues. But still, it might do some good." Wise man.

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Angie, Gladys And Georgina Taderera published a tribute .

Mukoma Callisto,

Some one once said the following about our lives on this earth:

"Life is like a journey on a train......
With its stations....
With changes of routes....
And with accidents.......
This train ride will be full of joys,
sorrows, fantasy, expectations,
hellos, good-byes and farewells....."

We believe you had a good journey, loving your family, helping, mentoring and just having good relations with those who came into your life.

We will definitely miss you.......an older brother you had become to us. Rest well in the Lord's arms.

Angie, Gladys and Georgina Taderera

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Aileen Marshall published a tribute .

Like others lucky enough to work with him, I learned a lot from Callisto, for which I am very grateful. He was very generous with his time and his ideas, and always encouraged others to do their best by setting very high standards for himself. But beyond that, a lasting memory is his integrity and his very real concern for ordinary people, expressed in so many ways. With condolences to his family, we will remember him. Aileen

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Roboid Covington published a tribute .

With great sadness and pain, I learned of the death of Mr. Madavo. My heart is heavy as I am sure many others hearts are too. I cherished the many memories I enjoyed working in the Africa Region under the leadership of Mr. Madavo. I remember the many retreats, the gathering of the first ever conference of Administrative Assistants, Executive Assistants and Operation Managers, etc., from the Africa continent that Mr. Madavo spearheaded. The seriousness of the workshops and the fun we had dancing at the receptions. It was the most humbling experience to meet with so many colleagues and to remain in touch for years. His stature even demanded respect, you could not help but love him! My sincere condolences to Mrs. Madavo and the "girls" (I remember the days they would come to our office), now they have grown into such beautiful young women. May these words bring some comfort to The Madavo family from 2 Corinthians 1:3,4
"Praised be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of tender mercies and the God of all comfort, who comforts us in all our trials so that we may be able to comfort others in any sort of trial with the comfort that we receive from God." With the utmost respect and my sincere condolences.

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Alison Rosenberg published a tribute .

I was privileged to work with Callisto for several years on African partnership initiatives, most notably the Strategic Partnership with Africa, which he transformed from a donors' club to a partnership with African countries and organizations. His vision, professionalism, humanity and gentle humor were an inspiration. He brought out the best in all of us. Like so many others, I am heartbroken.

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Kanny Diaby published a tribute .

It was with sadness that I learned of the passing of Mr. Madavo. He was a great, peaceful and kind man, I had the privilege of working with him and Messrs. Jean-Louis Sarbib and Praful Patel. It was a great team! My deepest condolences to his wife Katy, children and friends. May his soul rest in eternal peace.

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Phyllis Pomerantz published a tribute .

So many memories of Callisto. He was a serious calm gentleman, but somehow I could always get him to laugh (and occasionally to cry). He was a mentor and inspiration; I loved him. I regularly tell my current graduate students about him: how proud he made me to be working for him and at the Bank. My condolences to his family and to us all: we lost a true development hero.

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Yisgedu published a tribute .

I had the privilege of interacting with Mr. Madavo during my secondment in South Africa, where I got to experience first-hand his skillful interactions with the Authorities, his warmth and astute assessment of the country situation. He was supportive of the work I was doing, and I am grateful to have had the chance to see his commitment to the continent close-up. My praters and condolences to his family . Yisgedu

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Irene Xenakis published a tribute .

Callisto stands out as a man of integrity under all circumstances who has inspired so many and made life better from many more. Working with him was intellectually invigorating as well as enjoyable. I will cherish his memory. My deepest condolences to his family.

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Frank Byamugisha published a tribute .

Cal, as we used to call him, was a symbol of progress and development; a person we looked up to for motivation and inspiration. A great Elder, in the African sense, and yet a friend, with enormous humility.

We will miss you Cal and will forever keep you in our hearts and prayers.

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Dr. Jonas N. Chianu published a tribute .

Although I never met Prof. Callisto in person, I am very pleased to read about the role he played in the development of Africa while working at the World Bank. May his gentle soul rest in peace in the bosom of our Lord Jesus Christ. I also pray for strength for the family to bear this huge loss.

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Joe Wambia published a tribute .

WHEN I AM GONE
When I am gone, release me.
I have so many things to see and do.
I am happy that we had so many years.
I gave you love.
You can only guess how much you gave me in happiness.
I thank you for the love each has shown to me over the past years.
But now it is time I travelled alone.
So grieve for a while. Then let your grief be comforted by trust.
It is only for a while that we must part.
So bless the fond memories within your heart.
I will not be far away for life goes on.
If you need me call and I will come. Though you cannot see or touch me I will be near.
And if you listed with your heart
You will hear all of my love around you, soft and clear.
Then when you must, come this way alone.
I will greet you with a smile, and a welcome home.

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Ruth Kagia published a tribute .

For Callisto's retirement party in 2005, I wrote a poem for him "The Patriarch of our forest" a part of which I reproduce as we mourn this great son of Africa:

“Larger than life stands the patriarch tree of the forest
It’s branches, a huge canopy of support.
It’s thick trunk, a shoulder to cry on.
It’s deep roots, a buffer against the turbulence.
A towering presence exuding wisdom, commanding respect.
.........
Callisto. chief, mentor, friend.
Callisto, Patriarch tree in this our forest
We present you with the Order of the Baobab
For standing so tall in a forest so large.
For nurturing so many shoots in this our forest.

Fare thee well, great Baobab of the African forest

Note: The Order of the Baobab is awarded by the South African government to citizens who have made exceptional contribution, and for distinguished service that goes beyond the call of duty. The Baobab tree is symbolic of endurance, tolerance, vitality and longevity

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Ann Karasanyi published a tribute .

My sincere condolences to Kathleen Madavo and her lovely daughters on the passing of a dear husband and father. Mr. Madavo was my boss in the Africa Region for many years. A brilliant man full of humility and with deepest compassion for Africa. He always wanted me to call him Callisto but to me he was like an uncle I never met growing up. Africa, the world at large and I will miss deeply too.

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Susana Carrillo published a tribute .

My sincere condolences for Mr. Madavo's family. I met professor Madavo while I was working in the Africa Region. Although he was already retired, he provided very valuable guidance and mentoring. I was impressed with his passion and commitment for Africa's development.

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Zano Mataruka published a tribute .

While I did not get to work with Prof Madavo, growing up as a young student in Zimbabwe, he was one of my roles models. He inspired many of us to study economics and may his soul rest in peace.

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Josephine Armar published a tribute .

My deepest condolences to Mr. Madavo's family. He was my morning buddy for many years in the J building when we would cross one another en route to or en route from the J café and exchange greetings. Thank you for your leadership while at the helm of the Africa Region - some of the best times in my 30 year career at the Bank. May his soul rest in perfect peace.

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Guillermo Almada published a tribute .

I'm very saddened to learn of his passing. I remember him as a man of convictions and strong ethics. It was a pleasure and an honor to work with him in AFR. May he rest in peace. My sincerest condolences to his loved ones.

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Alexandra Bezeredi published a tribute .

Callisto Madavo was deeply committed to helping Africa achieve its enormous potential. It was always a pleasure to work with him. In addition to a deep knowledge and understanding of his Region, he was also warm and witty. My condolences to his family. He was a fine colleague.

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