Minister of Infrastructure Ernest Nsabimana delivering his opening remarks
The 69th ACI Africa Board and Committee Meetings, Regional Conference and Exhibition was officially opened this Tuesday by Dr. Ernest Nsabimana, Rwanda’s Minister of Infrastructure at Kigali Convention Center.
In his remarks, Minister Ernest Nsabimana noted that the aviation sector is the driving force to achieve the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA). He urged airport executives to ensure thriving airports, as this would enable the desired intra-Africa trade.
“Airport industry is very crucial in driving the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA). Without thriving airports, there’s no way Africa can achieve its desired development in regard to intra-Africa trade,” Minister Ernest Nsabimana said.
The opening ceremony of the ACI Africa Kigali attracted several high-ranking dignitaries in the global aviation sector including Luis Felipe de Oliveira, DG ACI World, Ali Tounsi, Secretary General of ACI Africa, Jules Ndenga, CEO of ATL (Aviation Travel And Logistics Holding Ltd) and dozens of African airports executives.
Mr. Emmanuel Chavez, the President of ACI Africa noted that airports must play an important role in the implementation of the Single African Air Transport Market (SAATM).
ACI Africa’s conference provides a unique opportunity and an ideal platform for airports and other aviation stakeholders, experts and exhibitors from around the world to network, share information and develop a common vision for the future of airport activities in Africa.
The conference is normally preceded by meetings of the Board and Regional Committees and followed by two simultaneous and free training seminars for ACI Africa members.
The event also includes a large-scale exhibition, bringing together airports, service providers and aviation companies to showcase their airport infrastructure developments, technological improvements, and innovative products and services. (End)