Session 9B: Financing Pilot Projects for the African Integrated Rail Network Initiative (AIRN)

This event serves as a pivotal preparatory step towards the development and financing of the 13 pilot projects that constitute the initial phase of the AIRN. The AIRN aims to enhance continental connectivity, promote intra-African trade, and stimulate sustainable socio-economic growth by linking key cities and economic hubs across all countries and regions of Africa. The session event will bring together a wide range of stakeholders, including government representatives, continental and international financiers, private sector partners, and rail infrastructure experts

Organiser:  AUDA-NEPAD/AUC

Moderator: Maria LAFONT, PhD, Senior Advisor for the African Region, International Union of Railways (UIC)-France

Speakers:

1. Hlina BELACHEW AZEREF, CEO of Ethiopian Railway Corporation (ERC) – Ethiopia.
2. Aboubacar Sidiki TOURE, Directeur des Infrastructures au Département de l’Aménagement du Territoire Communautaire et des Transports, Commission de l’UEMOA.
3. Epifanio Carvalho De Melo, Manager of NEPAD-IPPF, African Development Bank Group (AfDB)
4. Fabio DI STEFANO, Team Leader for Transport/Commerce/Digital at the Unit in charge of Regional Programs in at DG-INTPA/European Commission.
5. Andres Pizarro, Transport Sector Manager (PSC1), Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank (AIIB).
6. Dr John Deng Diar Diing, PhD., P.E. Executive Secretary, Northern Corridor Transit and Transport Coordination Authority (NCTTCA).
7. Mme Zahara Mahamat Hissène, Directrice Générale Adjointe, Office Nationale de Chemin de Fer du Tchad –ONCF.
8. Christian Chavanel, Director of Railways System Department and Coordinator of Africa Region – International Union of Railways (UIC).

Online Link:

https://zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_Y0ogbaIuQGOXH8UDhPR5lw