​Enhancement of connectivity through collaboration and cooperation with a view of improving operational efficiencies and drive sustainable growth in the African aviation sector were central to deliberations at the 33^rd Airports Council International Africa (ACI Africa) Regional Conference that concluded on Friday 20 September 2024.  ​

Convened at the brand new ACSA International Indaba Conference Centre under the theme: Flying Together: Airport Alliances and Partnerships, ACI Africa Conference had 365 delegates with 50 CEOs of African Airports who resolved to heighten collaboration, cooperation, and partnerships in a quest to grow the continent's aviation sector.

During the conference, participants engaged in meaningful discussions highlighting the pivotal role of the aviation industry as a catalyst for socio-economic development. Airports were recognised as essential facilitators of trade and economic growth at both national and regional levels.

By improving air links between African countries, stakeholders can promote intra-African trade, strengthen regional cooperation, and support the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA).

In his remarks, Emanuel Chaves, President of ACI Africa, emphasised the importance of collaboration: "Our industry's success hinges on our ability to work together, to innovate together, and to overcome obstacles together. Together, we can unlock the full potential of aviation in Africa, driving our industry towards a future of excellence, sustainability, resilience, and prosperity."

Adding to this sentiment, Ali Tounsi, Secretary General of ACI Africa, stated: "In today's highly interconnected world, collaboration is key. By pooling resources and expertise, airports, airlines, regulatory bodies and aviation stakeholders drive innovation, improve safety and security, enhance passenger experiences and embed sustainable practices in aviation."

Speaking during a panel discussion by CEOs of African Airports, ACSA CEO Ms. Mpumi Mpofu stressed the need to diversify service offering to feed the continent. "There is great potential for more airports to be developed of the continent and Airports Company South Africa has been really honored to be invited to many African countries to assist in the development of airports," she said.

ACSA has provided operational readiness and airport transfer services to many Africa airports including in Ghana, Liberia, and Zambia. "This enables us to offer our skills and services to those airports, to ensure we can provide reliable, safe and decent new newly developed and capitalised airports across the continent," added Ms. Mpofu.

The conference culminated in a series of resolutions aimed at enhancing cooperation among African states to meet Single African Air Transport Market (SAATM) goals. Key resolutions include:

• Embracing Collaboration: Breaking down silos and fostering cross-border cooperation among stakeholders to enhance operational efficiency.

• Achieving SAATM Goals: Aligning national policies with the SAATM framework to create an environment conducive to seamless air transport across Africa.
  
  
• Innovating Together: Promoting a culture of innovation within airports and aviation sectors to address challenges and seize emerging opportunities.
   
• Strengthening Partnerships: Building robust partnerships among governments, airlines, airport authorities, and private sector players to drive sustainable growth in the aviation sector.

The conference further resolved to expediate the adoption and use of new technologies in airport management, with a specific focus on improving efficiency, security, and passenger experience. Adoption of new technologies such as artificial intelligence and automation will stimulate growth of the aviation sector for the benefit of airport management companies, travelers, and traders.

Accepting that climate change is at the forefront of global concerns, ACI Africa Conference delegates endeavored to craft a path through which the continent's aviation industry can contribute to reducing its carbon footprint.

Amongst many different initiatives, African airports are committed create green spaces and wildlife habitats within their premises to support biodiversity while also acting as carbon sinks. Other concerted efforts to minimise the environmental impact of aviation operations include the adoption of green aviation fuels, improve energy efficiency, and implementation of carbon offset programmes.

Conference credentials: ACSA is proud to have hosted a successful ACI Africa conference that was addressed by the Premier of Gauteng Province Mr Panyaza Lesufi; Executive of the City of Ekurhuleni Mr Nkosindiphile Xhakaza; the Director General of the Department of Transport Advocate James Mlawu; and ACI Africa leadership.

The next ACI Africa conference will be hosted by Tanzania.

For media enquiries:

Ernest Mulibana – 082 263 7372

Senior Manager: Corporate Communications

Mediadesk@airports.co.za

Issued by Airports Company South Africa

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