The Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo has called for harmonisation of aviation policies to achieving the Single African Air Transport Market (SAATM).
The minister made the call on Tuesday in Johannesburg, South Africa at the International Air Transport Association (IATA) conference titled; ‘’Wings of Change Focus Africa 2024.”
Keyamo in a statement issued by his Special Adviser of Communications, Tunde Moshood, underscored the need for collaborative efforts among African nations to realise the goals of SAATM.
The minister highlighted the potential for increased trade, tourism, and investment opportunities that a unified air transport market could bring.
The key contributions necessary for achieving the SAATM objectives, Keyamo said: “Policy haarmonisation that advocates for the alignment of aviation policies and regulations across African countries to create a seamless and efficient air transport market.
“Infrastructure Development, emphasising the need for significant investments in airport infrastructure and air navigation services to support increased air traffic and ensure safety and efficiency.
“Capacity building, highlighting the importance of training and development programs for aviation professionals to build a skilled workforce capable of supporting a modern and competitive aviation industry and Public-private partnerships which between governments and private sector stakeholders to leverage resources, expertise, and innovation for the growth and sustainability of the aviation sector.”