Paris, France – The forthcoming Invest in African Energy (IAE) 2025 Forum is set to place a significant emphasis on the considerable opportunities for expansion within Africa’s downstream energy sector. As the continent strategically aims to bolster its energy security, decrease reliance on imports, and maximize the inherent value of its natural resources, the event will host a crucial high-level discussion titled “Downstream Beneficiation: Supply Chain Development for Optimal Performance.”
This dedicated session will delve into how the strategic growth of Africa’s downstream industries can fortify existing supply chains, significantly enhance refining capabilities, and catalyze sustainable economic development through targeted infrastructure investments and the cultivation of key strategic partnerships.
As Africa’s energy landscape undergoes a dynamic evolution, optimizing downstream operations has become a critical imperative for fully unlocking the vast potential held within the continent’s natural resources. The IAE 2025 session will specifically address the pressing need to bridge the infrastructure financing gap. Discussions will center on actionable strategies for upgrading existing refineries, expanding vital storage and distribution networks, and developing essential facilities such as service stations, bottling plants, and efficient transport fleets. 
Panel experts will also analyze the pivotal role of strategic regional hubs – including Egypt’s established petrochemical sector, Equatorial Guinea’s ambitious Gas Mega Hub initiative, and Algeria’s burgeoning green hydrogen industry – in enhancing the overall efficiency of Africa’s energy supply chain. Furthermore, key cross-border projects, such as the Central African Pipeline System and the Lobito Corridor, will be examined for their contribution to regional energy infrastructure.
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Despite notable advancements in Africa’s downstream investment climate, evidenced by significant projects like Nigeria’s massive Dangote Refinery, Angola’s developing Lobito and Soyo refineries, and Algeria’s Hassi Messaoud Refinery, challenges persist in securing adequate financial backing for essential infrastructure upgrades and overall supply chain expansion. Overcoming these hurdles will necessitate coordinated and collaborative efforts from African governments, private sector investors, and key industry stakeholders to cultivate resilient and efficient downstream operations.
The IAE 2025 downstream panel is designed to provide a vital platform for these stakeholders to engage in meaningful dialogue and formulate actionable strategies that will ensure Africa’s energy sector remains competitive, sustainable, and effectively responsive to evolving global energy demands.
The Invest in African Energy 2025 Forum, an exclusive event designed to foster crucial investment connections between African energy markets and global investors, will take place on May 13-14, 2025, in Paris. The two-day event offers delegates unparalleled opportunities for in-depth engagement with leading industry experts, project developers, investors, and policymakers.
