Aviation convention set to change narrative of African airlines
In light of Africa’s vast landmass, its population accounting for 16% of the world population, and its low share of global trade of 2%, the continent is an excellent opportunity to develop air transport. However, as a market, Africa’s share over several decades has remained stagnant at less than 3% of the world market, and it is time to take action to change this narrative.
The 11th Aviation Stakeholders Convention, scheduled to take place from 07 to 09 May 2023, is timely and aligned to address this situation. The convention, which is being hosted by Ethiopian Airlines under the patronage of the Ethiopian government, will be held under the theme “Changing the African Aviation Narrative”.
The event will bring together over 400 delegates from Africa and across the globe. It is one of Africa’s leading forums for air transport industry stakeholders to dialogue, exchange knowledge and experiences for the development of the travel ecosystem. Several African airline chief executive officers and aviation industry thought leaders will be present at the event.
Speaking in Addis Ababa on the significance of the attainment of sustainability which will change the narrative of Africa’s air transport, AFRAA secretary general Abdérahmane Berthé emphasised the importance of dialogue amongst stakeholders and collaborative initiatives such as those facilitated by AFRAA. “AFRAA and Ethiopian Airlines are excited to stage this convention for the travel ecosystem stakeholders to meet, deliberate on strategies to enhance efficiencies, create synergies, develop intra-Africa connectivity, and ensure business continuity that will redefine the narrative of Africa’s air transport industry”.
Group CEO of Ethiopian Airlines Mesfin Bekele remarked, “We are delighted to host the 11th Aviation Stakeholders’ Convention of AFRAA, which will serve as a forum for stakeholders in the industry to put their heads together and discuss the opportunities and pressing issues in Africa’s aviation sector. The forum will showcase the ‘Africa Rising’ mantra, manifested in the growing opportunities for all stakeholders in the continent’s aviation industry.”
A robust and comprehensive programme has been lined up to facilitate discussions on various salient topics, masterclasses, networking opportunities at social events and B2B sessions through a conferencing application.
Delegates will have the opportunity to network and discuss developments in the industry, and forge business partnerships.
On 10 May, the convention activities are scheduled to cover a CSR activity aimed at empowering the next generation of aviators at the Ethiopian University. The event will be sponsored by Collins Aerospace, and staged in collaboration with AFRAA and Ethiopian Airlines. There will also be exhibitions and showcases of aviation-related products and solutions at the exhibition segment of the convention.
The African Airlines Association, also known by its acronym AFRAA, is the leading trade association of airlines from the member states of the African Union (AU). Founded in Accra, Ghana in April 1968, and headquartered in Nairobi, Kenya, AFRAA’s mission is to promote, serve African airlines, and champion Africa’s aviation industry. AFRAA membership of 48 airlines cuts across the entire continent, and includes all the major intercontinental African operators.