Implementation of the Yamoussoukro Decision vital to Africa’s aviation

The African aviation industry holds immense potential for economic growth and job creation, with current figures showing that it supports 6.8 million jobs and contributes $72.5 billion to the continent's GDP. Despite these promising numbers, the lack of intra-Africa air connectivity has been a significant constraint on the region's economic development. To address this issue, the heads of states of the African Union made a significant decision in January 2015 to establish a single African air transport market by 2017. This decision, known as the Yamoussoukro Decision, aims to liberalize the African skies and promote air transport integration across the continent. Dr. Elijah Chingosho, the out-going Secretary General of the African Airlines Association, emphasized the importance of member states ratifying the Yamoussoukro Decision to unlock the full potential of Africa's aviation sector. With projections indicating a 5.7% increase in passenger demand annually over the next 20 years, the need for improved air connectivity within Africa is more pressing than ever. One of the key obstacles to the implementation of the Yamoussoukro Decision has been the absence of essential regulatory frameworks, such as consumer protection regulations and dispute settlement mechanisms. However, Dr. Chingosho highlighted that progress has been made in this regard, with these regulatory tasks now in place. This development signifies a significant step forward in paving the way for a more open and competitive aviation market in Africa. By allowing African airlines to operate more freely and collaborate with each other, the continent can foster the growth of strong, viable carriers that can effectively compete on a global scale. The decline in market share of African airlines from around 20% in the 1980s and 1990s to the current levels underscores the urgent need for greater collaboration and integration within the industry. Dr. Chingosho pointed out that the current fragmented nature of African carriers, with many operating as small entities with limited capacity, hinders their ability to compete effectively with larger international airlines. By enabling African airlines to form strategic partnerships and alliances, similar to those seen in other regions like the European Union, the aviation sector in Africa can become more robust and competitive. The consolidation of resources and expertise among African carriers will not only enhance their operational efficiency but also improve customer service and overall market viability. In light of these developments, the upcoming inauguration of the single African air transport market in January 2018 holds significant promise for the continent's aviation industry. As more African countries commit to opening their skies and embracing the principles of the Yamoussoukro Decision, the prospects for increased air connectivity and economic growth in Africa look brighter than ever. Dr. Chingosho's insights underscore the importance of collective action and cooperation among African nations to fully realize the benefits of a harmonized and integrated aviation market.