This week, Africa is urged to speed up its implementaion of Single African Air Transport Market (SAATM). The call came while International Air Transport Association (IATA)’s conference “Focus Africa Conference” happened here in Addis Ababa.
The full implementation of Single African Air Transport Market (SAATM) creates single unified air transport in the continent. As the African Development Bank (AfDB), the SAATM would lead to cheaper flights, greater passenger volumes and economic benefits. On their keynotes, leaders in the area have said this:
Ethiopian Airlines is moralizing economies in the continent and beyond. It is leading by example and sustains its role towards the full implementation of SAATM. The government of Ethiopia also advocates African countries to speed up their implementation of the program as it is significant in easing market and the movement of people.
Dhenge Boru, State Minister of Ethiopian Transport and Logistics
Full implementation of SAATM across the continent has the potential to generate nearly 600,000 jobs and over 3.9 billion US dollars in GDP. In Ethiopia alone, we believe SAATM could support an additional 21,000 jobs and contribute over 80 million US dollars to the GDP. It is critically important to implement the initiative.
Willie Walsh, Director General of IATA
“Unlocking the full potential of African aviation brings immense socio-economic benefits. However, these benefits and the unique operation of the industry remain misunderstood by most African Policy makers and authorities. This has to be changed and the benefit of iimplementation of SAATM should be noticed. It is important for countries in overcoming various challenges. Ethiopian Airlines is committed to advocate free movement of people and goods in the continent.”
Mesfin Tassew, CEO of Ethiopian Airlines Group
THE ETHIOPIAN HERALD SATURDAY 24 JUNE 2023
