Addis Ababa, December 6, 2024 (FBC) – The third extraordinary ministerial meeting of the African Union Transport and Energy Technical Committee endorsed initiatives on aviation fuels, energy efficiency, green hydrogen, and climate-smart infrastructure policy to ensure the continent stays ahead in the race for a greener future, according to Ethiopia’s Ministry of Transport & Logistics (MoTL).
MoTL Minister Mr. Alemu Sime (PhD) presided over an online discussion on December 5, focusing on the draft strategies and proposals developed by field experts aimed at enhancing transport and energy infrastructure.
In his opening remarks, Alemu emphasized the collective responsibility to shape the future strategy of the transport and energy sectors for the benefit of all African nations. “Transport and energy are not issues we take lightly; they form the backbone of our economy, driving business and supporting industrial growth,” he stated.
During the discussions, key approvals were made in both sectors.
In transport, the committee endorsed the Sustainable Aviation Energy Source Strategy and revisions to the Abuja Safety and Air Navigation Goals. The AU Strategy for Sustainable Aviation Fuels & Low Carbon Aviation Fuels aims to decarbonize aviation and achieve net-zero emissions by 2050. It will also support Africa in strengthening its technical capacity to play a key role in advancing sustainable aviation, according to the AU Infrastructure & Energy Department.
In the energy sector, the African Energy Efficiency Strategy and the Continental Green Hydrogen Strategy were both approved. It was indicated that the endorsement of African Energy Efficiency Strategy (AfEES) marks a major step toward a sustainable and energy-efficient Africa. This leap aligns with COP28’s goal to double energy efficiency by 2030 and complements the African Energy Efficiency Program launched at COP29 last month.
Concluding the meeting, Alemu highlighted the importance of continued coordination and cooperation, urging the ministers to work in unity to achieve a prosperous Africa.
The meeting saw the participation of ministers and experts from various African nations, all contributing to the strategic development of the transport and energy sectors across the continent, as per MoTL.