Powering Africa: The Biofuels Options

Maputo Conference Centre • 4 to 6 March 2009

What policies can encourage investment and guarantee a long-term African biofuel industry?

PABO was an executive dialogue, hosted by the Ministry of Energy in Mozambique, focusing on unlocking Africa's biofuel potential.

Government, industry, financiers and development agencies were invited to discuss the obstacles that are preventing the development of Africa's biofuels industry. By promoting an open dialogue between government and the private sector PABO hopes to overcome their joint concerns and further the responsible development of Africa's biofuels industry. Governments announced policies on biofuel development and investors articulated their aspirations and concerns.

The debate on the sustainability of biofuels - the rising food prices, deforestation, displacing existing arable land and doubts over climate change benefits - is well documented. The aim of PABO was not to reiterate these issues but to discuss policies that ensured that the biofuels industry in Africa moves forward in a sustainable and responsible manner.
• How is the biofuel industry going to benefit Africa?
• Can foreign investment, transfer of knowledge and best practises and trade opportunities create the impetus needed for development of the agricultural sector?
• Will the biofuel industry create a productive sub-sector in the energy sector and improve access to energy supplies, especially in rural areas?