Aviation connectivity key to unlocking AfCFTA
AfCFTA Secretary-General, Mr. Wamkele Mene
The inaugural African Air Transport Convention and Expo 2026 opened in Lomé on Tuesday with a strong call for improved air connectivity, visa liberalisation and the removal of barriers that continue to hinder Africa’s economic integration.
The landmark gathering, hosted under the patronage of Faure Essozimna Gnassingbé, President of the Council of the Republic of Togo, brought together political leaders, aviation executives, regulators and trade experts from across the continent.
Among the distinguished guests were President Paul Kagame of Rwanda, who served as Special Guest of Honour, and former Nigerian President Olusegun Obasanjo, a long-time advocate for African integration and economic cooperation.
A recurring theme throughout the opening ceremony and high-level discussions was the critical role aviation must play in supporting the implementation of the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA), the world’s largest free trade area by participating countries.
Speaking during a high-level roundtable, AfCFTA Secretary-General, Wamkele Mene, argued that Africa’s economic ambitions cannot be realised without addressing the mobility constraints that limit the movement of people, goods and services across borders.
“We are not talking about permanent residence. We are talking about letting an African entrepreneur travel to another country, do business, and return home — without queuing for a visa,” Mene said.
His remarks echoed growing calls across the continent for the accelerated implementation of the Single African Air Transport Market (SAATM) and broader visa-free travel arrangements aimed at reducing the cost and complexity of doing business in Africa.
Industry leaders at the conference noted that despite significant progress under AfCFTA, many African cities remain poorly connected by air, forcing travellers to transit through Europe or the Middle East to reach destinations within the continent.
Delegates argued that efficient air transport systems are essential for facilitating trade, attracting investment, promoting tourism and enabling the free movement of skilled professionals.
The convention is expected to generate policy recommendations aimed at strengthening regional connectivity, boosting airline cooperation and accelerating aviation reforms that support AfCFTA objectives.
Aviation connectivity key to unlocking AfCFTA | AviationGhana
