African ministers in charge of air transport have called for an acceleration of the implementation of the Single African Air Transport Market (SAATM), presented as a key tool for strengthening the continent’s economic integration.
Meeting in the Togolese capital during the African Air Transport Convention and Exhibition 2026, they adopted the Lomé Ministerial Declaration, accompanied by an implementation matrix designed to translate political commitments into concrete actions.
The document was signed on behalf of the ministers by Komlan Loku Kadje, Togo’s Minister of Transport, Rural Development, and Roads, and by Adefunke Adeyemi, Secretary General of the African Civil Aviation Commission (AFCAC).
The signatories reaffirmed their commitment to the Yamoussoukro Decision and the SAATM, which aim to liberalize air transport across the continent.
They call for the removal of obstacles that still limit access to the African market, the harmonisation of bilateral agreements with the principles of the single market, and the simplification of authorisation procedures for airlines.
An appeal has also been made to states that have not yet joined the African Union Transport Alliance (AUTAA) to do so.
Reducing costs and strengthening connectivity
The declaration emphasizes the need to make air transport more accessible to African populations. The ministers advocate a review of taxes, fees, and other charges that contribute to maintaining high costs on many routes.
They also recommend the adoption of a harmonised framework for aeronautical charges and the development of priority air corridors for passengers and cargo.
The objective is to support trade within the framework of the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA), while promoting the development of tourism, agriculture, e-commerce, and industry.
Participants also advocated for greater ease of travel across Africa, particularly through relaxed visa regimes, the widespread adoption of visas on arrival and e-visas, and the modernisation of border and customs procedures.
A modern, sustainable, and competitive aviation sector
Beyond connectivity, ministers stressed the need for increased investment in airport infrastructure, air navigation systems, cargo platforms, and digital tools. They encouraged the mobilisation of
public and private financing to support the sector’s modernisation.
The declaration also underscores the importance of the ecological transition of African aviation through the promotion of sustainable aviation fuels and low-carbon technologies. Skills development, particularly for young people and women, is also a priority, as is support for emerging innovations such as drones and advanced air mobility.
The states also committed to strengthening aviation safety and security, harmonising regulations, and consolidating the sector’s institutional capacities.
The role of CAFAC as the implementing body for the Multilateral Agreement on Air Transport (MAATT) was reaffirmed with the launch of a “CAFAC Solidarity Pledge 2026-2028” designed to
mobilise financial resources, expertise, and technical assistance.
Finally, the ministers agreed to develop a continental roadmap for the period 2027-2028 and to establish a mechanism for monitoring the commitments made in Lomé.
This momentum should also enable Africa to speak with one voice at the Seventh World Air Transport Conference (ATConf/7) of the International Civil Aviation Organization.
Through this declaration, African leaders intend to make air transport a true driver of trade, tourism, investment, and economic integration for the continent.
TE/fss/as/APA