ICAO reinforces commitment to African aviation development at landmark Brazzaville meetings

ICAO Secretary General Juan Carlos Salazar joined African aviation Ministers and other senior leaders in Brazzaville, Republic of Congo, last week to mark 25 years of aviation liberalization in Africa and to chart a course for the continent's aviation future.

The African Civil Aviation Commission (AFCAC) convened its 35th ordinary plenary session, opened by the Prime Minister of the Republic of Congo, which was followed by the Yamoussoukro Decision Anniversary celebrations. Delivering remarks at both events, Salazar emphasized the critical role of international cooperation in unlocking Africa's vast aviation potential.

The Secretary General highlighted how 2024's dual anniversaries - 25 years of the Yamoussoukro Decision and ICAO's 80th year - present a unique opportunity to reinvigorate Africa's aviation development. "These milestones remind us of the transformative power of international cooperation," Salazar noted. "The Yamoussoukro Decision laid the groundwork for aviation liberalization across Africa, while ICAO's eight decades of cooperation with States has established the framework for safe and sustainable air transport. Together, these achievements provide the foundation for Africa's next chapter of aviation growth.

Unlocking Africa's Aviation Future

During the Yamoussoukro Decision anniversary celebrations, Salazar addressed the current state of African aviation: "With over 1.4 billion people but representing just 3% of global air services, Africa's aviation sector holds enormous untapped potential. Through continued collaboration and targeted initiatives, we can unlock these opportunities and create a more connected continent.

The Secretary General highlighted the outcomes of the comprehensive infrastructure gap analysis, conducted through ICAO's partnership with the African Union Commission (AUC) and AFCAC. This strategic study provides crucial guidance for future investments in airports, air navigation systems, and aircraft fleets across the continent.

Strategic Initiatives and Support

ICAO's engagement at the events highlighted several key priorities for African aviation development:

• Implementation support for the Single African Air Transport Market (SAATM)
• Advancement of the Assistance, Capacity-building and Training for Sustainable Aviation Fuels (ACT-SAF) programme for sustainable aviation fuel adoption
• Technical assistance for achieving net-zero emissions targets
• Enhanced safety oversight capabilities

The Secretary General emphasized ICAO's commitment to providing tailored assistance to Member States, particularly developing nations, in achieving these objectives while aligning with both the African Union Agenda 2063 and the UN Sustainable Development Goals.

Strengthening Regional Partnerships

On the sidelines of the events, Salazar held bilateral discussions with the Minister of Transport of the Republic of Congo, M. Honoré Sayi, and the Minister of Transport of South Africa, Ms. Barbara Creecy. These meetings focused on reinforcing ICAO's support for aviation safety, security, and environmental sustainability initiatives in both countries.

Looking Ahead

The Regional Directors of the ICAO Western and Central African and Eastern and Southern African Offices, Mr. Prosper Zo'o Minto'o and Ms. Lucy Mbugua, respectively, accompanied Mr. Salazar throughout his mission, underlining ICAO's comprehensive approach to supporting African aviation development.

The convergence of these milestone events in Brazzaville has set the stage for enhanced cooperation between ICAO and African aviation stakeholders. Through continued partnership and targeted assistance, ICAO remains committed to supporting Africa's aviation sector as it works to achieve its full potential in the global air transport system.