The transition to a sustainable energy future requires more than ambition. It requires collaboration, innovation, investment, and platforms that bring stakeholders together to drive meaningful action. This June, Bio360 Africa 2026 will do exactly that as it launches its inaugural edition in Johannesburg, South Africa. Taking place on 17–18 June 2026 at the Gallagher Convention Centre, Bio360 Africa is a new international conference and exhibition dedicated to advancing bioenergy, the bioeconomy, and sustainable resource solutions across the African continent. Building on the success of Bio360 Europe, one of the world’s leading bioenergy events, Bio360 Africa aims to create a dedicated platform for Africa’s rapidly evolving bioenergy sector.

Why Bio360 Africa Matters

Africa possesses vast biomass resources with the potential to contribute significantly to the continent’s energy security, economic development, and climate goals. Agricultural residues, forestry by-products, organic waste streams, and other renewable resources can play a vital role in delivering clean, reliable, and locally produced energy while supporting sustainable industrial development.

As countries across Africa pursue ambitious renewable energy targets and seek innovative pathways to decarbonisation, bioenergy technologies are becoming increasingly important. Bio360 Africa will provide a unique opportunity for industry leaders, policymakers, investors, researchers, entrepreneurs, and technology providers to explore practical solutions and foster partnerships that accelerate deployment.

The event is designed to support the growth of a sustainable bioeconomy by facilitating knowledge exchange, showcasing proven technologies, and connecting stakeholders from across the value chain.

A First-of-Its-Kind Platform for Africa

Bio360 Africa is expected to welcome more than 1,000 participants from over 25 countries, creating a diverse and dynamic environment for networking, collaboration, and business development.

The event will feature:

• More than 60 exhibitors showcasing innovative technologies and services.
• Over 80 expert speakers from around the world.
• Two conference streams running across two days.
• Keynote presentations, panel discussions, and technical sessions.
• Dedicated networking and B2B meeting opportunities.
• Press engagement and media activities.
• Study tours on 19 June 2026 offering participants the opportunity to see bioenergy solutions operating in real-world environments.

By bringing together public and private sector stakeholders, Bio360 Africa seeks to catalyse investment, promote innovation, and accelerate the development of sustainable energy solutions throughout Africa.

Key Themes Shaping the Discussions

The conference programme will explore a broad range of topics that are critical to the future of Africa’s energy transition and circular economy.

Bioenergy Solutions

Participants will examine developments across multiple bioenergy pathways, including:

• Biogas and biomethane
• Biofuels
• Biohydrogen
• Biochar
• Solid biomass
• Clean cooking solutions
• Waste-to-energy technologies
• Off-grid and grid-connected applications

These technologies have the potential to transform agricultural and organic waste into valuable energy resources while reducing emissions and creating new economic opportunities.

Building the African Bioeconomy

Bio360 Africa will also explore how bio-based industries can drive sustainable economic growth through circular business models, resource efficiency, and innovative production systems.The integration of agriculture, waste management, industrial processes, and renewable energy will be a key focus area as stakeholders seek pathways toward a more resilient and sustainable economy.

Carbon Management and Carbon Removal

As organisations worldwide seek effective strategies for achieving net-zero targets, Bio360 Africa will highlight the role of biochar, carbon capture, carbon removal technologies, and carbon finance mechanisms in addressing climate change.

The discussions will examine how African projects can participate in emerging carbon markets while delivering environmental and socio-economic benefits.

Sustainable Transport and Renewable Fuels

Renewable fuels are expected to play a growing role in decarbonising transportation sectors that are difficult to electrify.

Conference sessions will explore opportunities for sustainable aviation fuels, renewable diesel, biomethane mobility solutions, and other innovations supporting cleaner transport systems across Africa.

Driving Partnerships and Investment

One of the key objectives of Bio360 Africa is to create an environment where partnerships can flourish.

The event will connect:

• Technology providers
• Investors and financiers
• Policymakers and regulators
• Project developers
• Agricultural stakeholders
• Research institutions
• International development organisations
• Corporate sustainability leaders

These connections are essential for scaling projects, attracting investment, sharing expertise, and accelerating the deployment of sustainable bioenergy solutions throughout the continent.

Renewables in Africa Proudly Supports Bio360 Africa

As a Media Supporter of Bio360 Africa 2026, Renewables in Africa is proud to support initiatives that advance clean energy development, sustainable innovation, and knowledge sharing across the continent.

The event aligns closely with our mission of promoting renewable energy opportunities, highlighting industry developments, and connecting stakeholders working to build a sustainable energy future for Africa.

We look forward to sharing updates, speaker highlights, programme announcements, and event insights in the lead-up to the exhibition.

Join the Conversation

Whether you are an investor, policymaker, technology provider, project developer, researcher, entrepreneur, or sustainability professional, Bio360 Africa offers an opportunity to engage with the people and ideas shaping the future of bioenergy in Africa.

Event Dates: 17–18 June 2026
Location: Gallagher Convention Centre, Johannesburg, South Africa

Visitor Registration:
https://www.bio360-africa.com/form/640

Exhibitor Registration:
https://www.bio360-africa.com/Page/1614/exhibit

Study Tours Registration:
https://sabia.glueup.com/event/bio360-africa-study-tours-181113/

Join industry leaders from across Africa and beyond as we explore how bioenergy and the bioeconomy can help accelerate a sustainable and resilient energy future.

Interview

TT: Can you start by providing some context about your role at Eranove?

RO: I’m Ralph Olaye, Head of Business Development at Eranove. My role involves developing new projects and leveraging the expertise we have built within the group to expand our operations. We started with a strong presence in Côte d’Ivoire and Senegal and have since expanded into Togo, Benin, Gabon, the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), and Madagascar. We are also exploring opportunities in other African markets.

TT: How many markets are you currently active in?

RO: We are operational in five markets and are developing projects in several others. Africa is our core focus. Eranove is a Pan-African industrial group, which is reflected in our mission: Projects in Africa, by Africa, for Africa.

TT: We’re here at SIREXE, the first edition of this event. What key message do you want to convey?

RO: SIREXE is unique in bringing together three interdependent sectors—energy production, extractive industries, and mining—allowing for a critical tripartite discussion. We produce electricity, often using extractive resources like gas, while mining companies are among the largest consumers of that energy.

To answer your question, Eranove operates over 1.5 GW of power on the continent, making us one of the largest private players in West Africa, particularly within the West African Monetary Union (UEMOA), where we are the leading operator.

Our core message is clear: We are a private group delivering public services through innovation. This innovation is not just technological but extends to financial strategies, workforce training, and operational processes. Private-sector involvement enhances efficiency and service reliability, often surpassing what traditional public utilities can offer. We’ve demonstrated this in Côte d’Ivoire, where our electricity prices remain competitive while maintaining high service reliability.

TT: Sustainable development is a major theme here. You’re integrating renewable energy like solar into your mix. How do you decide which projects to pursue?

RO: Sustainability for us is multi-dimensional. It’s about long-term partnerships with governments, ensuring quality service delivery, and minimizing environmental impact. We have focused heavily on hydropower, as it provides a stable base load. Unlike solar, which has become more accessible, hydropower projects require extensive feasibility studies, environmental assessments, and long-term financing—areas where we have significant expertise. While we haven’t yet incorporated solar farms, we acknowledge their growing role in Africa’s energy transition and collaborate with innovative players in that space.

TT: Let’s talk about Nigeria. It’s well known that private sector efficiency in resource allocation surpasses that of the public sector. However, Nigeria faces severe electricity challenges. What would it take for Nigeria to reach the level of electricity access seen in Côte d’Ivoire? Have you engaged with Nigerian officials on potential projects?

RO: Public-private partnerships (PPPs) are central to our approach. The private sector alone cannot succeed without the right regulatory and policy environment. Côte d’Ivoire provides a strong example where government vision, clear regulations, and an independent regulator create a thriving electricity market.

Nigeria is a complex yet promising market with over 200 million potential consumers. However, its grid infrastructure is less developed than Côte d’Ivoire’s, creating opportunities for mini-grids and decentralized energy solutions. The privatization efforts initiated in 2012-2013 were promising, but one critical missing element was tariff certainty. Private investors need assurances that tariffs will be adjusted to reflect actual costs, ensuring profitability. If governments don’t subsidize electricity appropriately or fail to enforce cost-reflective pricing, utilities struggle financially, leading to system failures.

TT: Given Nigeria’s ongoing reforms, particularly reducing electricity subsidies, would Eranove reconsider entering the Nigerian market?

RO: Absolutely. We are closely monitoring the second wave of reforms led by NERC (Nigerian Electricity Regulatory Commission). The push towards cost-reflective tariffs and regulatory improvements makes Nigeria more attractive. Many players, including Eranove, are eager to engage, but we need to see consistent implementation before making firm commitments.

TT: Thank you so much for your time. We appreciate your insights.

RO: My pleasure. Thank you.

Article

On the occasion of the first International Exhibition of Extractive and Energy Resources (SIREXE) 2024, Prime Minister Robert Beugré Mambé – under whose high patronage the event is being held – and the Minister of Mines, Petroleum, and Energy, Mamadou Sangafowa Coulibaly, the organizer of the exhibition with the support of UEMOA, aim to make a lasting impression. An impressive array of personalities from the sector is expected in Abidjan from November 29 to December 2, including about a dozen African ministers.

This includes Senegal’s Minister of Energy, Petroleum, and Mines, Birame Souleye Diop, Botswana’s Minister of Minerals and Energy, Lefoko Moagi, as well as the Congolese ministers of Hydrocarbons, Energy and Hydraulics, and Mining Industries and Geology, namely Bruno Jean Richard Itoua, Emile Ouosso, and Pierre Oba (State Minister).

Togo, Algeria, Angola, and the DRC will also be represented by their respective Ministers of Mines and Energy Resources, Robert Komi Messan Eklo, Minister of Energy and Mines, Mohamed Arkab, Minister of Mineral Resources, Petroleum and Gas, Diamantino Pedro Azevedo, and Minister of Mines, Kizito Pakabomba Kapinga Mulume.

Also not to be forgotten are Guinea’s Minister of Mines and Geology, Bouna Sylla, Benin’s Minister of Energy, Water, and Mines, Samou Seïdou Adambi, Gabon’s Minister of Mines, Gilles Nembe, and finally, South Africa’s Minister of Mineral Resources and Energy, Gwede Mantashe, who are also involved.

Norway, Guest of Honor

As the guest of honor for this first edition, Norway is sending its Minister of Energy, Terje Aasland, to the event. Côte d’Ivoire, in line with its Vision 2030 and its National Development Plan under President Alassane Ouattara, who “wants to make his country an energy power and a regional hub, while protecting the environment,” is indeed taking inspiration from the Scandinavian kingdom. Particularly, its integrated approach to extractive and renewable industries. Norway is the third-largest exporter of oil and gas in the world, and 98% of its energy mix comes from hydropower. Oslo and Yamoussoukro also maintain close economic relations, with Norfund, for instance, having allocated $130 million since 2022 to finance Ivorian SMEs.

With SIREXE, which expects 300 exhibitors and will be held every two years, Côte d’Ivoire is sending a strong message to all extractive sector players in Africa: its land is rich in significant potential, starting with hydrocarbons. Two new deposits, Baleine, which started production last year, and Calao, recently discovered, are expected to yield a total daily production of 200,000 barrels by 2027. In total, 10 deposits have currently been identified on Ivorian territory, which since last year, contribute no less than 20% of the state’s fiscal revenues.

 Ivory Coast, which has considerable mining potential and significant hydrocarbon reserves, aims to make the extractive sector a pillar of its economic growth. Mining production has significantly increased, and recent discoveries in the Baleine and Calao oil fields are propelling Ivory Coast to the rank of a major player in the gas and oil sector. Significant progress has also been made in developing renewable and conventional energy production capacities.

 As stated by Ivorian Prime Minister Robert Beugré Mambé, ‘The SIREXE is more than just a fair; it is a North-South and South-South exchange platform that brings together investors, governments, and experts to forge strategic partnerships and explore innovative technologies.”  The theme of this first edition, “Sustainable development of extractive and energy industries: what policies and strategies?”, reflects Ivory Coast’s commitment to promoting responsible use of resources that ensures benefits for all while preserving ecological balances.

Introduction

Africa, a continent luxuriously endowed with natural resources, paradoxically struggles with widespread poverty and underdevelopment. This disconnect between resource wealth and economic prosperity was at the core of Mr. Chibeze Ezekiel’s presentation at the African Youth Conference on Natural Resources and Environmental  Governance (read more: https://syndghana.org/african-youth-conference/ ).

Mr. Chibeze Ezekiel, founder of the Strategic Youth Network for Development (SYND) and a 2020 Goldman Environmental Prize laureate, challenged the young participants from across the continent to be the architects of change. Highlighting various African government charters and policies that emphasize youth participation, he underscored the critical role young people can play in ensuring sustainable and equitable management of the continent’s natural resources.

The Paradox of Plenty

The presentation unpacked Africa’s abundant resource picture, from vast reserves of minerals and oil to fertile lands and fresh water. Yet, statistics paint a grim reality. UNEP reports Africa loses a staggering $195 billion annually due to factors like illegal mining, unregulated fishing, and environmental degradation.

Prospects for Africa

Despite this disheartening reality, Mr. Chibeze emphasized prospects for a brighter future. He pointed to the potential of harnessing these resources to finance development and propel Africa towards prosperity. The key lies in ensuring “results-oriented, climate resilient, and sustainable” practices in resource exploitation.

Mr. Ezekiel lauded initiatives like Ghana’s Public Institution Accountability Committee, which tracks the utilization of revenue from oil and gas resources. He advocated for similar mechanisms across the continent to ensure transparency and accountability.

A Call to Action: Shifting the Narrative

But how can this transformation be achieved? Mr. Chibeze’s clarion call urged young Africans to shift from being bystanders to active participants. He emphasized the need to be “solution-oriented” and embrace the principles of “Common but Differentiated Responsibilities and Respective Capabilities” (CBDR-RC) in tackling climate change.

SYND: Leading by Example

The presentation showcased inspiring examples of youth-led solutions spearheaded by SYND. From the Young Green Entrepreneurs Forum that empowers young innovators to tackle climate change, to mangrove restoration projects and initiatives promoting youth participation in agricultural policymaking, SYND is paving the way for a more sustainable future.

A pivotal initiative is the Youth in Natural Resources and Environmental Governance Platform (Youth-NREG). Launched in 2019, this platform empowers young Africans across educational backgrounds to engage in crucial conversations around natural resource management and environmental governance.

Mr. Chibeze concluded by urging young people to embrace a “paradigm shift.” He challenged them to be a “new breed” of Africans, equipped with a “renewed mindset” and a resolute commitment to eradicating poverty and underdevelopment through responsible resource management.

Conclusion

The fight against climate change and the quest for a more equitable Africa demands the active participation of its youth. As Mr. Ezekiel aptly quoted Robert Swan, “The greatest threat to our planet is the belief that someone else will save it.” The young people of Africa are rising to the challenge, and their leadership will be instrumental in shaping a sustainable and prosperous future for the continent.

By: Rashid Latif Bukari

Summary

The Powering Africa Summit (PAS24) recently convened in Washington, D.C., heralding a pivotal gathering of industry leaders, policymakers, and stakeholders to address the pressing challenges and promising opportunities in Africa’s energy landscape. Over the course of two days, participants engaged in insightful discussions, high-level boardroom sessions, and strategic dialogues aimed at catalysing sustainable development and driving impactful change across the continent.

Article

A significant highlight of PAS24 was the official inauguration of the partnership between the East African Community (EAC) and EnergyNet Ltd., underscoring a commitment to collaborative action and regional cooperation. Spearheaded by H.E. Honourable Andrea Malueth, Deputy Secretary General of the EAC Secretariat, this partnership signals a pivotal step towards fostering synergy and leveraging collective efforts to address energy challenges in East Africa.

A focal point of PAS24 was the Ministerial Roundtable, where dignitaries and policymakers convened to discuss critical issues such as lowering debt costs and exploring alternatives to sovereign guarantees. Abebe Selassie of the International Monetary Fund (IMF) emphasized the importance of addressing debt dynamics and fostering climate-resilient development pathways.

The summit commenced with a compelling discussion on ‘Accelerating Energy Access,’ underscoring the urgent need for enhanced collaboration among governments, private sector entities, and international financial institutions. Esteemed speakers, including Adam Cortese of Sun Africa and USAID Administrator Samantha Power, emphasized the critical role of innovative financing models and climate-smart energy strategies in propelling electricity access across Sub-Saharan Africa.

“Africa stands on the cusp of a unique opportunity. Export-Import Bank of the United States would like to be a partner on that journey.” Judith Pryor, who addressed the opening remarks on ‘How EXIM is investing in major energy infrastructure projects’.

Throughout PAS24, esteemed thought leaders and industry experts shared valuable insights and perspectives on various facets of Africa’s energy transition. From discussions on lowering debt costs and exploring alternatives to sovereign guarantees to examining the role of development finance institutions in financing a just energy transition, the summit provided a platform for robust dialogue and knowledge exchange. Pradeep Pursnani of Konexa expressed excitement about the evolving narrative in energy access, underscoring the importance of innovative strategies and inclusive solutions.                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                    A special highlight of the summit was the Celebration Dinner hosted by Deloitte, dedicated to recognizing the invaluable contributions of women in driving economic development. Adaku Ufere and Lisa Witte delivered inspiring opening remarks, underscoring the transformative impact of gender-inclusive policies and initiatives in Africa’s energy sector.

Charting the Path Forward

As PAS24 drew to a close, participants reflected on key takeaways and actionable insights garnered from the summit’s deliberations. With a renewed commitment to collaboration, innovation, and sustainable development, stakeholders departed with a shared vision of advancing Africa’s energy agenda and forging a brighter, more resilient future for generations to come. Angela Nalikka of the African Development Bank Group emphasized the urgency of a just energy transition and the imperative of ensuring access to basic equipment for sustainable development.

In summary, PAS24 served as a dynamic platform for meaningful dialogue, strategic collaboration, and actionable solutions, underscoring the collective resolve to overcome challenges and unlock the vast potential of Africa’s energy sector. As the continent embarks on its journey towards a sustainable energy future, the insights and partnerships forged at PAS24 will continue to guide and inspire transformative change across Africa and beyond.

PAS24 concluded with expressions of gratitude to participants, speakers, sponsors, and organizers for their invaluable contributions to the conference’s success. Special thanks were extended to summit sponsors, including Power Africa, Sun Africa, African Development Bank Group, and Marathon Digital Holdings, for their steadfast support.

Author

Oluoch Were is the Regional Director for Kenya, and East Africa at Renewables in Africa.

The organization’s role in coordinating national research in the energy space, including renewable energy and energy storage.