Afreximbank has reinforced its commitment to advancing Africa’s aviation sector during the 2026 Airline Economics Growth Frontiers Global Conference held in Dublin, Ireland.
The Bank’s delegation was led by Executive Vice President for Intra-African Trade and Export Development, Mrs. Kanayo Awani, who engaged in high-level discussions with airlines, aircraft lessors, manufacturers, financiers, and policy institutions from around the world.
Talks focused on key priorities for the continent’s aviation industry, including fleet renewal, innovative leasing models, aviation infrastructure development, and strengthening regional air connectivity. The engagements underscored Afreximbank’s strategy to position aviation as a critical enabler of trade and economic integration across Africa.
On the sidelines of the conference, Mrs. Awani held bilateral talks with Nigeria’s Minister of Aviation, Mr. Festus Keyamo, on expanding access to financing for fleet modernisation and airport upgrades. She also met with representatives of the African Development Bank Group to fast-track the creation of a dedicated aircraft leasing platform aimed at supporting African carriers.
Further discussions with Dubai Aerospace Enterprise explored potential collaboration on sale-and-leaseback arrangements, co-financing structures, and broader support mechanisms to facilitate the acquisition of next-generation aircraft in priority African markets.
The conference also highlighted successful financing partnerships in the sector. TAAG-Linhas Aéreas de Angola was honoured with the Supported Finance Deal of the Year award for its multi-layered financing package to acquire Boeing 787-10 aircraft. The transaction was delivered through Afreximbank in collaboration with strategic partners.
Through these engagements, Afreximbank continues to strengthen Africa’s aviation value chain, enhance connectivity across the continent, and support trade integration under the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA).