The Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Mr. Festus Keyamo has highlighted the need for collaborative efforts among African nations to realise the goals of Single African Air Transport Market (SAATM).
This is just as he stressed the potential for increased trade, tourism, and investment opportunities that a unified air transport market could create.
A statement signed by the SA Media and Communications to the Minister of Aviation and Aerospace, Tunde Moshood, explained that
Keyamo said this while speaking at the International Dialogue at International Air Transport Association (IATA) conference titled, “Wings of Change Focus Africa 2024” Conference in Johannesburg, South Africa.
The conference organized by the international airline body brings together key stakeholders in the aviation industry to discuss the future of air transport across the African continent.
Speaking at the conference, the aviation minister emphasised the critical importance of SAATM, an initiative aimed at liberalising the African aviation industry to enhance connectivity, improve safety standards, and boost economic growth.
He underscored the need for collaborative efforts among African nations to realize the goals of SAATM, highlighting the potential for increased trade, tourism, and investment opportunities that a unified air transport market could bring.
The Minister outlined several key contributions necessary for achieving the SAATM objectives, which according to him includes: policy harmonisation, which will align aviation policies and regulations across African countries to create a seamless and efficient air transport market.
He also mentioned the need to invest in infrastructure development at airports and air navigation services to support increased air traffic and ensure safety and efficiency.
Others are capacity building, which involves training and development programmes for aviation professionals to build a skilled workforce capable of supporting a modern and competitive aviation industry, Public-Private Partnerships (PPP).
PPP, the Minister said, must be encouraged between governments and private sector stakeholders to leverage resources, expertise, and innovation for the growth and sustainability of the aviation sector.
He called for a concerted effort to address the challenges facing the African aviation industry, such as high operational costs, restrictive bilateral agreements, and limited access to financing.
He stressed that overcoming these obstacles is essential to unlocking the full potential of SAATM and achieving the broader economic benefits for the continent.
The “Wings of Change Focus Africa 2024” conference served as a vital platform for dialogue and collaboration among African aviation leaders, regulators, and industry experts.
The Minister’s contributions were well-received, reinforcing Nigeria’s commitment to playing a pivotal role in advancing the African aviation industry.
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