AfDB and JGC Corporation Sign Agreement to Promote Sustainable Aviation Fuel in Africa
The African Development Bank (AfDB) and Japanese engineering company JGC Corporation have signed an agreement to advance the development and adoption of sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) across Africa.
The Letter of Intent was signed on 21 August 2025 in Yokohama on the sidelines of the Ninth Tokyo International Conference on African Development (TICAD9). SAF, produced from renewable sources such as plant oils, waste materials, and captured carbon, aims to reduce the environmental impact of air travel.
The partnership establishes a framework for joint development, knowledge sharing, and co-financing opportunities for SAF and other green aviation solutions. The collaboration aligns with AfDB’s sustainable transport, mobility, and energy transition strategies.
Under the agreement, AfDB will coordinate with public sector aviation stakeholders, identify project pipelines, and explore financing options, including feasibility studies and global partnerships. JGC Corporation will conduct demand and feasibility assessments for SAF in African markets, and support the adoption of Japanese technology tailored to local resources and infrastructure.
Commenting on the partnership, AfDB Vice President for Private Sector, Infrastructure & Industrialization, Solomon Quaynor, said: “Adopting Sustainable Aviation Fuel in Africa is key to reducing carbon emissions while boosting the competitiveness of the sector. This collaboration with JGC will unlock new opportunities for green aviation and position Africa as a leader in the field.”
Mr Shoji Yamada, President of JGC Corporation, added: “We are proud to work with the African Development Bank to advance SAF in Africa. Leveraging our expertise in sustainable energy and plant engineering, we aim to support Africa’s decarbonisation efforts while fostering economic growth and innovation.”
