PRESS RELEASE: Dakar Forum Underscores ARDA’s Leadership in Africa’s Energy Transformation

DAKAR, 19th September 2025 – The African Refiners & Distributors Association (ARDA) has cemented its annual Storage, Distribution & Jet Fuel Forum as a must-attend event for Africa’s downstream industry by continuing to expand its scope to reflect the sector’s evolution.

This year’s edition broke new ground with sessions on lubricants and bitumen alongside core themes of petroleum logistics and aviation fuels, underscoring ARDA’s role as the voice of Africa’s energy transformation.

The Forum was honoured to welcome several distinguished VIP speakers who shared strategic insights on Africa’s evolving energy landscape. Contributions came from Patrick Dias da Cunha, Board Member & Managing Director, CPMZ Pipeline; Badara Mbacke, Managing Director, TotalEnergies Sénégal; Wesley Monteiro, Middle East Market Engagement Lead, S&P Global Commodity Insights; Anyeyure Joseph Adongo, Managing Director, GOBITUMEN, GOIL Ghana; and Anis Aboulnaga, Lubricants Subject Matter Expert (SME) and former Country Manager, Egypt for Chevron International Fuels & Lubricants.

Their perspectives provided valuable context on infrastructure development, market drivers, and the future of petroleum and jet fuel supply chains across the continent.

Across ten expert-led discussion panels, the Forum explored critical issues shaping Africa’s energy infrastructure. Discussions highlighted the need for efficient port infrastructure, safer bulk trucking, and future-proof pipeline and rail investments to meet the continent’s growing demand. Speakers emphasised the role of technology and innovation in strengthening Africa’s storage and distribution systems, while practical case studies shed light on real-world challenges and solutions.

The spotlight then turned to aviation, with sessions dedicated to quality assurance in jet fuel supply, tackling infrastructure bottlenecks, and advancing sustainable aviation fuel initiatives. Delegates also examined best practices, safety standards, and lessons learned, gaining actionable insights to improve operations across the supply chain. The final day broadened the scope to specialised products, with discussions on opportunities in Africa’s growing bitumen and lubricants markets, further reinforcing ARDA’s mission to support a resilient, efficient, and sustainable energy future for the continent.

Closing the event, ARDA Executive Secretary Anibor Kragha reflected on the Forum’s continued evolution as the reason it remains relevant and essential: “This gathering grows stronger each year because the conversations evolve with the industry. That is what makes this Forum a must-attend event for our sector.”

Mr Kragha also reminded delegates that ARDA will celebrate its 20th anniversary at ARDA Week 2026 in Cape Town, noting: “As ARDA turns 20, we are now adults – and this is the time when you realise that your journey has just begun.”

About ARDA

The African Refiners & Distributors Association (ARDA) is a leading non-profit organisation dedicated to advancing the sustainable development of Africa’s energy sector. The mission of our community is to promote collaboration among industry stakeholders, foster innovation, and drive investment to address Africa’s energy challenges. Through its work, ARDA aims to help unlock the continent’s energy potential, reduce energy poverty, and support Africa’s economic growth.

For all press enquiries, please contact: media@afrra.org

Version française de ce communiqué de presse : CLIQUER ICI