Ethiopian Airlines and AFRAA Host Aviation Convention
Oru Leonard
“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 – it is time to take action to change this narrative.”
The 11th Aviation Stakeholders Convention, scheduled to take place from 07-09 May 2023 is timely and aligned to address this situation. The Convention, which is proudly being hosted by Ethiopian Airlines under the patronage of the Government of Ethiopia, 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. The Convention 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.
On the significance of attainment of sustainability that will change the narrative of Africa’s air transport, Mr. Abdérahmane Berthé, Secretary General of Africa.n Airline Association (AFRAA), emphasized the importance of dialogue among 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, ensure business continuity that will redefine the narrative of Africa air transport industry.”
Mr. Mesfin Bekele, Group CEO Ethiopian Airlines says the airline is “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” noting that the meeting will also “showcase the ‘Africa Rising’ mantra manifested in the growing opportunities for all stakeholders in the continent’s aviation industry.”
The Convention will feature robust and comprehensive programme, masterclasses, networking opportunities and social events as well as B2B sessions. A highlight of the event is the CSR event for youth development in aviation which is “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.”
The African Airlines Association (AFRAA) is a Trade Organisation open to membership of airlines of African States.
(Aviation and Allied Business Publication)
