EIB, EBRD, AfDB Collaborate on Sustainable Aviation Fuel in Africa
- The EU adopted the ReFuelEU Aviation Regulation in October 2023.
- The African Union adopted a Continental Strategy for SAF in February 2025.
- The EU Sustainable Transport Investment Plan launched in November 2025.
- SAF development is crucial for aviation decarbonization and economic growth.
Joint Statement on SAF in Africa
The EIB, EBRD, and AfDB express their commitment to advancing Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF) and cleaner energy projects in Africa. This aligns with the global aviation goal of net-zero carbon emissions by 2050, supported by the ICAO Global Framework for SAF.
Regulatory Frameworks
The European Union adopted the ReFuelEU Aviation Regulation in October 2023, while the African Union introduced a Continental Strategy for SAF in February 2025. The EU Sustainable Transport Investment Plan, launched in November 2025, emphasizes EU-Africa cooperation on SAF.
Economic and Environmental Impact
SAF is identified as a key driver for aviation decarbonization and economic growth, offering job creation and development opportunities for African states. Current production levels are low, necessitating global efforts to scale up SAF production and deployment.
Global Gateway Initiative
Supporting SAF development in Africa, Latin America/Caribbean, and Asia-Pacific is a Global Gateway flagship initiative. A coordinated effort by Team Europe aims to enhance market access and secure renewable fuel imports, aligning with the Global Europe regulation proposal.
Collaborative Efforts
The EIB, EBRD, and AfDB, in collaboration with the European Commission and African institutions, aim to explore pathways for scaling up SAF projects in Africa. This involves engaging stakeholders, leveraging EU-funded programs, and utilizing existing cooperation mechanisms like the ICAO ACT-SAF program and FINVEST Hub.
Source: EIB