Airlines seek improved intra-African air connectivity
23 states endorse full YD implementation
Africa’s apex airline body, African Airline Association (AFRAA) has called on African Governments and stakeholders to enable airlines to improve intra-Africa connectivity by unlocking the barriers to connectivity.
The 23 States that have signed up for the full implementation of the Yamoussoukro Decision towards the Single African Air Transport market were urged to follow through on their commitment in order to stimulate the development of inter-African air transport and the realization of aviation’s economic and social benefits.
The Assembly also called upon States with blocked funds to release airline sales revenues for airlines to do business effectively.
They made the call at the just concluded 49 th Annual General Assembly and Summit of the body in Kigali, Republic of Rwanda at the Kigali Convention Centre.
The three-day conference, which was convened under the high patronage of the Government of the Republic of Rwanda was officially opened by Edouard Ngirente, the Prime Minister of Rwanda on behalf of His President Paul Kagame, the President of the Republic of Rwanda.
The event was held under the theme “Rethinking strategies for airline profitability in Africa” and was attended by over 450 high profile delegates from 52 countries across the world.
Opening the 49th AGA and Summit, Ngirente highlighted the importance accorded to aviation by the Government of Rwanda as an enabler of economic transformation.
He cited the Government’s initiatives such as the new Bugesera International Airport project and the support to RwandAir’s fleet and route expansion plans.
In order for the aviation industry in Africa to catch up with the rest of the world, he called on African Governments and airlines to harmonize their operations including airport taxes improve and expand the aviation infrastructure and train the required personel.
He urged States to facilitate the movement of people across borders by providing visas at the port of entry for those requiring them and called on countries yet to sign the Yamoussoukro Decision to do so as a matter of urgency.
“Let us all strive to work together to continue promoting the African aviation sector for the better future of the entire African continent,” he said.
AFRAA Secretary General, Dr. Elijah Chingosho, in his welcome remarks, commended the Government of Rwanda for facilitating the development of the country as a preferred business and tourist destination and for supporting the country’s national carrier, RwandAir.
Google+