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African Development Bank seals drone technology deal in Yokohama.
The African Development Bank (AfDB) has signed a strategic cooperation agreement with Japanese drone manufacturer Aerosense Inc. to accelerate the deployment of drone technology in Africa.
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The African Development Bank and Aerosense signed a Letter of Intent on 21 August during TICAD9 in Yokohama, Japan. The TICAD9 signing strengthens AfDB’s drone technology initiatives while promoting sustainable infrastructure development across Africa.
Agreement to Drive Infrastructure Innovation and Knowledge Sharing
The partnership, signed by AfDB Vice President for Private Sector, Infrastructure & Industrialization, Solomon Quaynor, and Aerosense President & CEO, Kohtaro Sabe, focuses on knowledge sharing, technical cooperation, and sustainable infrastructure solutions. It will also explore co-financing opportunities and coordinated efforts to drive drone adoption across multiple African sectors.
Drone Solutions for Road Maintenance and Beyond
Aerosense’s drone technology was selected under AfDB’s Sustainable Road Maintenance Program for Africa (SRMPA) in June 2025. The initiative will help address Africa’s infrastructure challenges by promoting efficient road management, while also expanding to other critical areas such as disaster management, river and flood control, agricultural monitoring, and medical supply delivery.
Role of AfDB and Aerosense in Implementation
Under the deal, AfDB will coordinate with African governments, raise public awareness, and provide capacity-building and financing support for drone-related projects. Aerosense will conduct demand and feasibility studies, adapting its technology to Africa’s geographic and market conditions, and explore large-scale deployment opportunities.
Leaders Commit to Africa’s Digital Future
Speaking on the agreement, Quaynor said:
“By partnering with Aerosense, we will not only strengthen Africa’s road management systems but also introduce innovative drone solutions for disaster response, agriculture, and healthcare delivery.”
Aerosense CEO Kohtaro Sabe added:
“It is a great honour to serve Africa with Japanese drone technology to improve quality of life. We look forward to collaborating with AfDB to build a better future together.”
