The African Development Bank Transport Forum 2024: African Union Commission's Efforts to Boost Transport Connectivity in Africa
At the recently held African Development Bank Transport Forum 2024 #ATF2024 in Abidjan, a prominent topic of discussion was the state of connectivity in Africa. Eng. Eric Ntagengerwa, Head of Transport and Mobility Division at the African Union Commission (AUC), shared insights into several key initiatives that the AUC is spearheading to enhance connectivity across the continent.
Eng. Ntagengerwa began by acknowledging the efforts of the African Development Bank in supporting the AUC’s infrastructure and energy projects. He outlined the importance of the African Union Commission’s interventions, aligning with the collaborative work undertaken with various partners, including the United Nations Economic Commission for Africa (UNECA).
Single African Air Transport Market
A major project led by the AUC is the implementation of the Single African Air Transport Market (SAATM). Since its launch in 2018, the African Civil Aviation Commission (AFCAC) has been executing the SAATM to accelerate the integration of African airspace. Currently, 37 African states have joined this initiative, representing about 89% of intra-African traffic. This programme supports the African Continental Free Trade Agreement (AfCFTA) by enhancing intra-Africa air connectivity. The AUC has been working closely with the African Development Bank in supporting this project and identifying aviation infrastructure gaps.
The African Integrated Railway Network
The African Integrated Railway Network is another flagship project under the AUC’s leadership. The project has two phases, aiming to enhance railway connectivity across the continent. The first phase involves 13 pilot projects scheduled for completion by 2033. Eight of these projects have progressed from feasibility studies to the construction phase, indicating substantial progress.
To support railway development, the AUC has collaborated with GIZ to develop a Railway Sourcebook, which will be a guideline for railway planning, design, maintenance and construction in Africa. This initiative is expected to strengthen intra-African trade and support the AfCFTA by improving rail connectivity.
Decarbonisation of Transport
The AUC is also leading efforts to decarbonise transport, focusing on the Trans-African Highway Network, which consists of 10 highway links across Africa. These efforts include the introduction of public and mass transportation in urban settings to promote environmentally friendly transit systems.
Road Transport Regulation Harmonisation
Touching on the ongoing work to harmonise road transport regulations across Africa. The AUC is collaborating with Regional Economic Communities to establish a safe, integrated and efficient road transport regulatory framework, by harmonising transport regulations. This harmonisation will enable transport operators to navigate seamlessly across borders under unified regulations and standards, contributing to both smart and efficient transport corridors.
Programme for Infrastructure Development in Africa (PIDA)
Another significant AUC initiative is the Programme for Infrastructure Development in Africa (PIDA). The first phase of PIDA ran from 2012 to 2020, and the second phase, covering 2021 to 2030, focuses on 69 priority projects, of which 60% fall within the transport sector. This highlights the continent’s emphasis on improving connectivity and in the same context highlights that connectivity requires the integration of all sectors.
The PIDA programme operates on a corridor approach, involving regional economic communities, corridor management institutions, and other stakeholders. The screening process for priority projects, led by AUDA-NEPAD, aims to identify projects with the most significant regional and continental impact, considering criteria such as climate resilience and digitalisation.
Collaboration and Financing
Eng. Ntagengerwa emphasised the critical role of collaboration and partnership in implementing these initiatives. He called on member states and regional economic communities to work together, establishing frameworks like the Green Port Forum to discuss and coordinate transport initiatives.
Regarding financing, the African Development Bank (AfDB) plays a crucial role in supporting countries to prepare projects for bankability. The AfDB offers facilities such as the NEPAD IPPF Fund, which aids countries in developing their terms of reference, feasibility studies and project preparation. After preparation, the bank continues to support the development and implementation phases, including construction and operation.
Eng. Ntagengerwa stressed the interconnectedness of transport with other sectors such as ICT, energy and water resources. The AUC advocates for integrated solutions and a unified approach when prioritising projects and engaging policymakers to ensure a seamless and efficient connectivity network across Africa.
