Zestas

ZESTAs Joins the African Hydrogen Partnership

Glasgow (UK), Port Louis (Mauritius) – 12 June 2024

The African Hydrogen Partnership (AHP) is delighted to announce that Zero Emissions Ship Technology Association (ZESTAs) joined the AHP.

99% of vessels currently in operation utilize high-emission fuels. As the global economy shifts towards more sustainable energy sources, there is an urgent requirement for enhancements to maritime infrastructure and vessels. To guarantee a reliable, affordable, and clean energy future for ocean transportation, a rapid enhancement in innovation and a competitive market for new fuels and technologies is essential. The ZESTAs and the AHP are determined to join forces to expedite the transition to zero-emission and sustainable hydrogen technologies in the maritime industry.

Madadh MacLaine, Founder and Secretary General at ZESTAs, stated,
“Africa sits on the frontline of climate impacts, while holding all of the resources required to prevent it. Through collaboration with the AHP, ZESTAs will work to ensure that the value of these resources remain within Africa, supporting its population to become resilient, benefit from adversity, and share its natural energy wealth with the world, on its terms. Maritime shipping, as the main energy transporter, and a major energy consumer, creates the perfect nexus for this partnership.”

Dr Innocent Uwuijaren, AHP Chairman and Director, said,
“The AHP is committed not only to minimizing GHG (Greenhouse Gas) emissions but also to safeguarding bio habitats and biodiversity. Approximately 2% of current greenhouse gas emissions stem from seaborne shipping, indicating that maritime and inland shipping vessels play a substantial role in global warming. The oceans endure severe marine heatwaves, humanity contaminates the waters, and overfishing swiftly diminishes the already declining fish stocks. Given Africa’s coastline of nearly 31,000 km, it is imperative for Africa to take action in order to protect marine ecosystems. I am excited that ZESTAs has become a member of the AHP. Together, we will collaborate to reduce GHG emissions and environmental pollution caused by waterborne transport .”

Prof Bamidele Adebisi, AHP’s University Board Member and Director, stated,
“Maritime transport (or ocean transport) or more generally waterborne transport is by some distance the most common mode of cargo transportation. Without this industry, intercontinental trade would quite simply not be possible. Hydrogen is a critical component for the decarbonization of vessels, regardless of their size. African ports play a crucial role in the decarbonization of international shipping routes, particularly those in the Indian Ocean, which are among the busiest in the world. Theoretical and applied sciences will play a crucial role in accelerating the decarbonization process. A strong partnership between ZESTAs and the AHP is vital for developing zero-emission, environmentally sustainable solutions for the decarbonization of international shipping. I am very much looking forward to collaborating with Zestas and engaging in many fascinating research projects.”

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About ZESTAs

Our purpose is to promote rapid and large-scale uptake of Zero Emissions Ship Technology (ZEST). Zero Emissions means zero GHG (Greenhouse Gas) emissions at point of use on the vessel with minimal upstream impacts. By combining zero emission technologies, we achieve zero emissions at a shipboard level faster. With today’s technologies we can achieve fully zero emissions now, particularly on smaller return to base vessels, and drastically reduce emissions on larger ocean going vessels with more complicated operational profiles.

For more information about ZESTAs, please visit https://zestas.org/.

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SunGlobal

Sun Global Investments Joins the African Hydrogen Partnership

Sun Global Investments Joins the African Hydrogen Partnership

London (UK), Port Louis (Mauritius) – 19 May 2024

The African Hydrogen Partnership (AHP) is delighted to announce that Sun Global Investments Limited (Sun Global) joined the AHP. Sun Global Investments Limited, a UK-based financial services firm, plays a vital role in advancing Africa’s clean energy transition through its active involvement with The African Hydrogen Partnership (AHP). With deep expertise in emerging markets, Sun Global arranges funding and connects renewable energy projects with global investors, offering tailored financial solutions to drive investment in sustainable technologies.

Kaumil Shah, CFO and Member of the Executive Board at Sun Global, stated,
“Sun Global is proud to support the growth of Africa’s hydrogen economy through our partnership with the African Hydrogen Partnership. We believe that by providing tailored financial solutions and connecting investors with impactful projects, we can play a crucial role in accelerating the continent’s energy transition and unlocking new economic opportunities for projects across Africa. Together, with the AHP, we can join forces and help build towards a more sustainable future. We look forward to commencing our journey with the AHP.”

Dr Innocent Uwuijaren, AHP Chairman and Director, stated,
“The AHP team is excited to welcome Sun Global to our organization. Sun Global provides the necessary flexibility for establishing financial syndicates aimed at advancing renewable energy and hydrogen technology. Their team operates beyond the confines of a single nation or region, possessing the expertise to connect lenders and borrowers for projects of varying scales across Africa. Collaborating with an investment bank that facilitates equity, debt, and grant transactions of all sizes greatly strengthens AHP’s capabilities. I am optimistic that our partnership with Sun Global will yield significant success.”

Prof Bamidele Adebisi, AHP’s University Board Member and Director, said,
“Securing funding for research initiatives can be challenging due to their inherently non-profit nature. This often leads to protracted procedures where bureaucratic processes absorb a substantial portion of the advantages. To foster hydrogen initiatives in Africa, applied science projects must create a foundation for profit-driven projects that utilise the findings of the research. Sun Global will substantially contribute to funding these applied science initiatives, which are part of larger, commercially viable projects. I am delighted that Sun Global has joined the AHP, and I eagerly anticipate a successful and productive collaboration.”

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About Sun Global

Sun Global is an ideas-centric financial service company for clients, covering developed and emerging markets.

Ahead of the curve and constantly adapting to shifts in the economic landscape, Sun Global integrates creative thought, strategic insight and a client-oriented approach to provide financial solutions to tackle complex Investment Advisory, Securities Trading & Corporate Finance briefs.

Harnessing the expertise of an international team of professionals, drawn from some of the world’s most renowned banks, investment houses and brokerage institutions, Sun Global works across multi-asset classes to present the most current investment opportunities to its clients worldwide.

For more information about Sun Global, please visit https://sunglobal.co.uk/

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Conf - Blog - De-Briefing

De-Briefing – AHP Conference, Addis Ababa, April 2025

The African Green and Natural Hydrogen Conference, organised and hosted by the African Hydrogen Partnership (AHP), took place in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, on 8 and 9 April, 2025.

Delegates came from all over Africa and from Europe and Asia. In a very full programme, presentations were given on a wide range of hydrogen-related topics but there was, nevertheless, a particular focus on two important initiatives:

1.) The deployment of hydrogen trucks on the Berbera/Addis Ababa Corridor (the Berbera Corridor); and
2.) The funding and production of an African natural hydrogen atlas.

The conference represented a significant milestone for the AHP, marking the introduction of the first genuine project initiatives that require substantial funding and represent a significant development for the AHP, its members, and the hydrogen landscape in Africa.

Please check out the attached PDF for additional details: AHP_De-briefing doc_v1 (1)

Julio

African Natural Hydrogen Atlas

Among the key topics at the AHP’s Green and Natural Hydrogen Conference, which occurred in Addis Ababa on April 8-9, 2025, were Natural Hydrogen and the African Natural Hydrogen Atlas, as introduced by Prof Júlio Carneiro.

Discoveries of natural hydrogen reserves in Mali, coupled with promising geological indicators in South Africa, Mozambique, Djibouti, Namibia, and Morocco, indicates Africa’s significant potential as a leader in geological hydrogen production. An African Natural Hydrogen Atlas would serve as a definitive resource for identifying, evaluating, and promoting the development of geological hydrogen “sweet spots” across the African continent. This atlas would provide a consolidated platform to harness this potential, fostering investment, research, and policy development.

By providing a comprehensive and authoritative resource on Africa’s geological hydrogen potential, the African Natural Hydrogen Atlas could play a pivotal role in unlocking the continent’s clean energy future.

We would like to express our deep thanks to Prof Júlio Carneiro for his excellent presentation on this topic. The African Hydrogen Partnership is committed to supporting the development of the African Natural Hydrogen Atlas and assisting in securing funding.

DSC03363

The AHP Conference in Addis Ababa

The AHP’s Green and Natural Hydrogen Conference, which took place in Addis Ababa on April 8-9, 2025, proved to be highly successful. All key themes were effectively discussed and addressed.

A decision was made to initiate work on the first significant project, ‘Hydrogen Trucks for the Berbera Corridor.’ Participants recommended the creation of a collective order book for several nations, such as Ethiopia, Somaliland, Nigeria, South Africa, and Madagascar, to realize economies of scale and lower costs. The African projects will pursue close collaboration with partners from China, India, Germany, the UK, Japan, the EU, and other regions. By enhancing African capabilities, these initiatives will promote economic growth and commercial success in Africa.

It has started!

The AHP is deeply appreciative of all attendees, participants, and supporters for their exceptional contributions.
nigeria webinar

Secure the Future: Sustaining Production in a Dynamic Energy Landscape

Join us for “Secure the Future: Sustaining Production in a Dynamic Energy Landscape” on April 15, 2025, from 11:00 AM to 1:00 PM. The event is hosted by the Nigerian National Petroleum Company (NNPC) Limited Research, Technology, and Innovation Division.

This webinar will explore:

  • the evolving upstream sector,
  • innovative technologies for asset maintenance and barrel growth,
  • sustainable operations, and
  • key policy insights.

Featuring industry experts, case studies, and actionable strategies.

Don’t miss this chance to gain valuable insights and contribute to NNPC’s commitment to innovation and growth.

Registration: https://events.teams.microsoft.com/event/dfc45e84-9937-44f2-b477-cec4d908dedb@c9bfec4a-5ccc-4996-bf58-9401877a9892

Bamidele Adebisi

MBE Award for Prof Bamidele Adebisi

The African Hydrogen Partnership (AHP) is thrilled to announce that Prof Bamidele Adebisi MBE has been awarded an MBE (Member of the Most Excellent Order of the British Empire) in the King’s Birthday Honours.

This prestigious honor recognizes Prof Adebisi’s (Prof at The Manchester Metropolitan University, Director at the AHP) significant contributions to knowledge transfer.

Prof Adebisi has played a leading role in shaping the AHP into the vibrant and impactful organization it is today. Through his dedication, expertise, and unwavering commitment, he has made invaluable contributions to the advancement of hydrogen technologies and applications in Africa.

Prof Adebisi’s tireless efforts have helped raise awareness of the potential of hydrogen as a clean and sustainable energy source, fostering collaboration among stakeholders, and driving innovation in the hydrogen sector.

The AHP extends its heartfelt congratulations to Prof Adebisi for this well-deserved recognition. We are immensely proud of his achievements and grateful for his exceptional leadership and service. Prof Adebisi’s dedication and commitment to the AHP and the hydrogen community are an inspiration to us all.

We look forward to continuing our work with Prof Adebisi as we strive to unlock the full potential of hydrogen in Africa and contribute to a more sustainable and prosperous future for all.

More information: https://www.mmu.ac.uk/news-and-events/news/story/manchester-met-professor-awarded-mbe-services-knowledge-transfer

Hydrogen Senegal - Blog

Hydrogen Senegal joins the African Hydrogen Partnership

Dakar (Senegal), Port Louis (Mauritius) – 8 December 2024

The African Hydrogen Partnership (AHP), the only continent-wide African association dedicated to green and natural hydrogen, is delighted to announce that Hydrogen Senegal has joined the growing number of AHP members.

Senegal is located on the westernmost point of Africa, making it a major shipping hub for trade between Africa, Europe, and the Americas. Port Dakar is one of the busiest ports in Africa and handles a significant volume of cargo. The Port of Dakar has a deepwater port capable of handling large vessels, making it an ideal destination for international shipping. Senegal’s mining activities are focused on phosphate and limestone. While phosphate is needed for producing phosphorus fertilizers, limestone is required for producing cement.

Renewable energy and clean hydrogen are not just a necessity but also an opportunity for economic growth of Senegal.

Charalampos (Charis) Chatzimarkakis (CEO at Hydrogen Senegal) commented,
“Senegal is one of the leading producers of high quality phosphates in the world. Using its renewable energy sources and minerals, Senegal could become a leading producer of green Urea, Monoammonium phosphate (MAP) or Diammonium phosphate (DAP). The International Maritime Organization’s 2023 GHG Strategy aims for net-zero emissions from international shipping by or around 2050. The Poseidon Principles Association aims to enable financial institutions to align their ship finance portfolios with responsible environmental behaviour and incentivise international shipping’s decarbonisation. The transition is gaining traction. This development offers great opportunities for Senegal which could become a major producer and provider of hydrogen fuel for the global shipping industry. I am delighted that Hydrogen Senegal has joined the growing number of AHP members.”

Dr Innocent Uwuijaren (AHP Director, AHP Chairman | CEO at Cheranna Energy) stated,
“On behalf of the entire association, I would like to extend a warm and heartfelt welcome to Charis and the Hydrogen Senegal team. Senegal’s economy has been growing steadily in recent years, with GDP growth averaging over 5% per year. This growth is being driven by a number of factors, including increased investment in infrastructure, tourism, and agriculture. The global economy is changing. The transition to green energy has gained a lot of momentum. Hydrogen will be an essential part of the transition process and needed for supporting the growth of Senegal’s rapidly expanding economy. Hydrogen Senegal’s skills and expertise will be a valuable asset to the AHP, and we look forward to seeing the contributions Hydrogen Senegal will make in the months and years to come.”

Prof Bamidele Adebisi (AHP Director, AHP University Board Member | Head of Smart Infrastructure and Industry Research (SIIR) Group at Manchester Metropolitan University) explained,
“I am delighted that Hydrogen Senegal joined the AHP. Senegal is heavily reliant on imported fossil fuels, which makes it vulnerable to price fluctuations and supply disruptions. Investors are increasingly aware of the risks associated with climate change and are reluctant to invest in projects that contribute to greenhouse gas emissions. Governments are implementing stricter regulations on fossil fuel projects, making them more expensive and time-consuming to develop. Investors are increasingly pressured by their stakeholders to divest from fossil fuels and invest in sustainable energy sources. The change is already happening in Africa. It has become more challenging for African companies to raise capital for projects that rely heavily on fossil fuels. Hydrogen technology can help Senegal to reduce its dependence on fossil fuels and improve its energy security. We are thrilled to have you join our team and contribute your unique talents and perspectives to our organization.”

About Hydrogen Senegal

Hydrogen Senegal is a company that specializes in promoting and managing investments in renewable energy sources and in the production of Hydrogen, Ammonia, and Chemicals, as well as transport, storage, and export of these chemicals and fuels. With a focus on sustainability and environmental responsibility, we aim to participate in the revolution in the energy industry by harnessing the power of renewable resources. Headquartered in Senegal Hydrogen Senegal aims to be at the forefront of the green energy revolution. We collaborate with international partners and local communities to create a sustainable future for generations to come.

At Hydrogen Senegal, we believe that renewable energy is not just a necessity but also an opportunity for economic growth. By investing in our projects and joining us on this journey towards a greener world, you are contributing to a brighter future for both society and the planet. Together, let’s build a sustainable future powered by hydrogen.

For more information about Hydrogen Senegal, please visit https://hydrogensenegal.com/.

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Abuad Blog

Natural (Geologic) Hydrogen in Nigeria

The African Hydrogen Partnership (AHP) congrats Dr Martins Ilevbare [Researcher, Geologist at Afe Babalola University (ABUAD)] on his impressive and well received presentation “Natural Hydrogen in Nigeria” at the Nigerian Conference on Hydrogen at the Presidential Palace in Abuja, Nigeria, on 27 November 2024.

The AHP would like to thank ABUAD, one of the most active members of the AHP, for its continued support and cooperation. Special thanks to Dr Martins Ilevbare whose work on geologic hydrogen is of crucial importance for Nigeria, Africa and the AHP Natural Hydrogen Study Group.

NRFSA

Norton Rose Fulbright South Africa becomes first law firm to join the African Hydrogen Partnership

Johannesburg (South Africa), Port Louis (Mauritius) – 28 October 2024

Norton Rose Fulbright South Africa is proud to announce its membership in the African Hydrogen Partnership (AHP), marking a significant milestone as the first law firm to join the alliance. This strategic move reflects the firm’s commitment to the hydrogen economy, a critical and growing component of the global energy mix.

The AHP is at the forefront of promoting hydrogen as a sustainable energy carrier, with its initiatives spanning the African continent to foster collaboration, policy development, and the creation of an efficient hydrogen ecosystem. As the only law firm member, Norton Rose Fulbright South Africa is uniquely positioned to offer legal expertise in navigating the regulatory frameworks that will guide the hydrogen sector’s growth. Norton Rose Fulbright South Africa’s membership in the AHP further strengthens the firm’s reputation as a key player in the renewable energy sector. The firm has a strong track record of advising clients on energy projects across Africa, providing legal solutions that support sustainable growth, energy transition, and innovative financing structures.

Georg Kahle (Senior Mining Lawyer at Norton Rose Fulbright) commented,
“As the hydrogen industry gains momentum, particularly on the African continent, this association with the AHP reinforces our dedication to supporting the legal and regulatory frameworks that will drive innovation and sustainable energy solutions across Africa. The development of the hydrogen economy presents a unique opportunity for the continent to harness its abundant resources, fostering economic growth and energy independence.”

Alastair Dixon (Corporate, Mergers & Acquisitions Consultant at Norton Rose Fulbright South Africa) remarked,
“By joining the AHP, Norton Rose Fulbright South Africa is positioned at the forefront of this transformative sector, reinforcing our commitment to sustainable energy and our client’s interests in this rapidly evolving landscape.”

Dr Innocent Uwuijaren (AHP Director, AHP Chairman | CEO at Cheranna Energy) stated,
“The AHP Leadership Team is delighted that Norton Rose Fulbright South Africa joined the growing number of AHP member organizations. Legal expertise is essential for the AHP and its members. The AHP is an association that represents the interests of businesses in Africa’s evolving hydrogen industry sector. Norton Rose Fulbright South Africa’s expertise can provide the AHP and its members with a variety of services, including advocating policies that promote hydrogen development, working on regulatory frameworks or negotiating and drafting complex contracts and or agreements. Norton Rose Fulbright South Africa capabilities will greatly contribute to the development of the AHP and the hydrogen sector in Africa.”

Prof Bamidele Adebisi (AHP Director, AHP University Board Member | Head of Smart Infrastructure and Industry Research (SIIR) Group at Manchester Metropolitan University) explained,
“Norton Rose Fulbright is one of the most prestigious corporate law firms globally. Norton Rose Fulbright’s expertise will be essential for creating public-private partnerships (PPPs) for developing hydrogen markets in Africa by providing legal advice and support to both public and private sector entities involved in the partnership. By working with a corporate law firm, public and private sector entities can ensure that their PPPs are structured in a way that is legally compliant and beneficial to all parties involved. I am thrilled that Norton Rose Fulbright South Africa has become a member of the AHP.”

About Norton Rose Fulbright South Africa

As a commercial and financial hub, South Africa is a gateway to Africa’s emerging economic growth. Norton Rose Fulbright South Africa has offices in Cape Town, Durban and Johannesburg, providing counsel across the full spectrum of corporate law.

The firm has particular strength in the financial institutions, and energy, infrastructure and resources industries. Norton Rose Fulbright South Africa has an in-depth understanding of the legal and regulatory landscape governing business in the country, including an established Black Economic Empowerment practice.

For more information about the Norton Rose Fulbright South Africa please, visit https://www.nortonrosefulbright.com/en-za


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