Ethiopian Airlines is doing its level best in bringing Africa closer together both at the times of prosperity as well as adversity. This sets a good example to all those firms that wish the prosperity of the continent.
Unity is strength. African countries have also shown their adherence to the principle of unity as they formed the AU to work in collaboration. In spite of many challenges African countries have been struggling to pursue their common interest and win shared problems.
In different times African countries have faced war, famine, climate change and other problems. They fought all these adversities together and have achieved their goals regardless of the extent.
Currently the continent, just like the whole nations in the world, is facing an unprecedented level of formidable challenge. COVID-19 is feared to pose severe impact on the continent.
All out efforts are actually underway throughout the continent and support is coming from different directions to streamline the preventive efforts. In this regard various commissioners and ambassadors working at different capacities in the Union have discussed with other stakeholders in devising effective strategy to contain the spread of COVID-19 and rescue the continent from the imminent threat.
Among the major issues they discussed include the urgent need to maintain the supply chain for drugs; medical equipment and food supplies to facilitate the humanitarian assistance missions to AU member States.
They further agreed to work together to develop and implement the relief measures to help the air transport industry recover from the negative impact of COVID-19 pandemic, in a well-coordinated framework involving the key air transport stakeholders.
In this regard Ethiopian Airlines is playing big role in the timely distribution of medical equipment and supplies.
It is undeniable fact that the airline is a commercial firm. Obviously it works for profit. However it has been contributing its share in the pan African issues of the continent. But it is also showing integrity beyond financial interest. Like many other companies it could have suspended flights until the environment is safe to operate.
No matter how big the challenge is, it is important to think far beyond the problem. Through concerted effort of the global community, the pandemic would come to an end any time in the future. Yet the contribution of the airline would be a timeless one. All stakeholders should also act accordingly for a prosperous continent.
The Ethiopian Herald April 25/2020
