BRAZZAVILLE, REPUBLIC OF THE CONGO – Governors of the African Development Bank Group (AfDB), development partners, investors and private sector representatives have expressed support for the Bank’s Integrated Aviation Transformation Program (IATP), a new platform designed to strengthen Africa’s aviation sector through innovative financing, risk-sharing mechanisms and regional collaboration.

Platform approach targets aviation and health systems

The initiative was presented during the African Development Bank Group’s 2026 Annual Meetings under the theme “Platform Solutions for Africa’s Transformation: De-risking Aviation and Health Systems through Innovative Financing.” The Bank showcased the IATP alongside the African Medical Equipment and Medicines Facility (AMEF), positioning both programmes as examples of a broader platform-based financing approach aimed at addressing continental challenges at scale.

According to the Bank, the model moves beyond traditional project-by-project funding by creating structures capable of attracting capital, aligning partners and delivering large-scale development outcomes.

US$7 billion aviation mobilisation target

The IATP is intended to support fleet modernisation, aviation infrastructure upgrades, logistics improvements and greater integration of Africa’s air transport market. The African Development Bank Group aims to mobilise US$7 billion over the next five years through partnerships with governments, development institutions, airlines, aircraft manufacturers, leasing companies, investors and other stakeholders.

Mike Salawou, Director of the Infrastructure and Urban Development Department at the Bank, noted that only 19% of flights within Africa are operated by African regional or national airlines. He added that economic losses linked to deficiencies in air transport are estimated at between US$50 billion and US$100 billion annually.

Japan commits US$10 million

A significant development during the meeting was Japan’s announcement of a US$10 million contribution to the IATP Risk-Sharing Facility. The funding is intended to help reduce financing risks associated with fleet acquisition by African airlines and support the programme’s initial implementation phase.

The Bank said the contribution is expected to strengthen the platform’s ability to attract additional financing while supporting efforts to modernise African air transport and improve regional connectivity.

National support for implementation

Participants emphasised that successful implementation will require strong national ownership, aligned development partners and measurable outcomes. Several government representatives highlighted the importance of risk mitigation and innovative financing mechanisms in unlocking investment across the aviation sector.

Nigeria’s Minister of Aviation, Festus Keyamo, announced the signing of the first National Compact under the Integrated Aviation Transformation Program with the African Development Bank, while other ministers called for stronger regional cooperation and expanded aircraft leasing solutions.

Aviation viewed as a catalyst for development

The Bank stressed that improved air connectivity plays a broader role in economic development by supporting trade, supply chains and access to essential goods and services. Enhanced aviation networks can facilitate the movement of medicines, vaccines, medical equipment and healthcare personnel while strengthening implementation of the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA).

The initiative forms part of the African Development Bank Group’s wider strategy to mobilise capital for development and support more integrated, resilient and inclusive economic growth across the continent.