AfDB, JGC Corporation Partner To Advance Sustainable Aviation Fuel In Africa
In a major step towards decarbonising Africa’s aviation industry, the African Development Bank (AfDB) and Japan’s JGC Corporation have signed an agreement to promote the development and adoption of Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF) across the continent.
The partnership, formalised through a Letter of Intent on the sidelines of the Ninth Tokyo International Conference on African Development (TICAD9) in Yokohama, aims to drive Africa’s transition to green aviation while boosting innovation and economic growth.
SAF, derived from renewable sources such as plant oils, waste materials, and captured carbon, offers a cleaner alternative to conventional jet fuel and is key to reducing the environmental footprint of air travel.
Under the agreement, AfDB will coordinate with public sector aviation stakeholders, identify potential project pipelines, and explore financing options including feasibility study support and debt or equity financing. JGC Corporation, on its part, will conduct demand and technical feasibility studies, assess infrastructure needs, and facilitate the transfer of Japanese technology to Africa.
AfDB Vice President for Private Sector, Infrastructure and Industrialisation, Solomon Quaynor, said adopting SAF was vital for reducing carbon emissions and strengthening the continent’s aviation competitiveness.
“This partnership with JGC will help unlock new opportunities for green aviation and position Africa as a pacesetter in the sector,” he noted.
JGC Corporation President, Shoji Yamada, expressed optimism about the collaboration, adding that it aligns with the company’s commitment to sustainable energy and economic development.
“By leveraging our experience in plant engineering and sustainable energy, we aim to contribute to Africa’s decarbonisation efforts while fostering local economic growth and innovation,” he said.
The partnership reinforces the AfDB’s sustainable transport and energy transition agenda, marking a significant stride toward Africa’s green aviation future.
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