Ethiopia stresses need for policy shifting, promoting infrastructure dev’t in Africa aviation sector

Addis Ababa, May 13, 2024 (FBC) – The Ethiopian government has been seeking to facilitate policy changes for a better infrastructure development and enhanced training capacities as well as human resource development in the African aviation sector, said Minister of Transport and Logistics, Alemu Sime.

The 12th Aviation Stakeholders Convention and Africa’s 1st Safety and Operations Summit is convening in Addis Ababa.

In his opening remarks today, the minister said the Ethiopian government realizes the great economic value of air transport as a catalyst for driving the country’s economy forward.

Ethiopian Airlines Group, in particular, is considered as a vital institute that bears a profound responsibility in facilitating the seamless movement of people and goods.

“It is on account of this undeniable reality that the Ethiopian Government has consistently and comprehensively extended its support to the Airlines, ensuring that all requisite and types of assistance are effectively provided.”

Hence, he expressed his appreciation for the remarkable achievements of Ethiopian Airlines Group and its dedicated employees.

According to him, the group is known for its outstanding contributions in establishing a robust transportation infrastructure that serves millions of passengers, particularly fellow Africans.

Thus, Ethiopian Airlines Group deserves the highest recognition.

In this regard, Alemu elaborated Minister of Transport and Logistics has played a significant role in the aviation and air transport sectors, in conjunction with its home-grown airline, the national flag carrier.

However, throughout this journey, the air transport sector has encountered a wide range of challenges that are inherent to the global aviation landscape, ENA reported.

These challenges have been also widely seen in the African aviation industry such as lack of infrastructure development, traffic rights restrictions, shortage of training facilities, and human resource development.

Furthermore, it is worth mentioning the necessity of policy amendments and bilateral discussions, making them beyond the purview of airlines to solve independently, the minister underlined.

Acknowledging the complexity of those issues in the aviation sector, the minister underlined the need for having a collaborative approach. Alemu has also reaffirmed the commitment of the Ethiopian government and its willingness to work with other African governments.

“By fostering cooperation and undertaking joint initiatives, the Ethiopian government seeks to facilitate policy changes, promote infrastructure development, enhance training capacities, and support human resource development in the African aviation sector,” the minister added.

He further stated that through these concerted efforts, the government aspires to enable the growth and success of African airlines while addressing the unique challenges they encounter.