As the aviation industry marked the 25th anniversary of the Yamoussoukro Decision last month, we reflect on the significant strides made in reshaping Africa’s aviation landscape. This milestone not only provides a moment to celebrate the progress we’ve achieved but also serves as an opportunity to unlock the vast untapped potential of our continent by fostering stronger collaboration and enhancing air connectivity.
The Yamoussoukro Decision, adopted in 1999, set the foundation for a unified African air transport market and has been transformative for the continent. While its anniversary allowed us to appreciate how far we’ve come, it also provided a timely moment to reconsider how we can build on this success. Africa’s skies must become more than just corridors for air traffic; they must become conduits for economic growth, regional integration and trade. Aviation is not merely about transporting people — it’s about creating vital links for businesses, fostering closer ties between nations and enabling trade to thrive across borders.
One of the most significant achievements of the past two decades has been the creation of the single African air transport market. Under the leadership of the African Civil Aviation Commission (AFCAC) and its partners, the vision of a unified air transport market is steadily being realised.
To date, 37 African nations have committed to opening their skies, paving the way for increased connectivity, enhanced trade and the growth of tourism. According to the International Air Transport Association, the liberalisation of air transport in just 12 key African countries could generate an additional 155,000 jobs and increase GDP by $1.3bn (about R23bn) annually.
A strong aviation network is essential for boosting tourism. Our continent — with its diverse landscapes, rich cultures and vibrant cities — has immense potential to attract a far greater number of foreign tourists, which in turn will generate revenue, create jobs and support local businesses. The influx of tourists, business travellers and medical patients relies heavily on efficient and reliable aviation services.
There are challenges that must be addressed to unlock the full potential of this new, integrated air transport network. Key to this is the issue of aviation safety and security.
We cannot afford to bargain on matters relating to air transport safety, security and functionality. This is because we must, at every opportunity, give assurance to each travelling person that their safety is of paramount importance.
While progress has been made, with 28 African states achieving a safety rate of 60% or higher, there remains much work to be done. Africa must prioritise the elevation of safety standards across the continent, not only to boost traveller confidence but also to ensure the safety of passengers, crew and ground staff.
The sky knows no limits; instead, it unveils new frontiers for us to explore
South Africa remains fully committed to supporting this effort, offering technical assistance and collaborating with fellow states in the Sadc region and beyond to implement the standards and recommended practices of the International Civil Aviation Organisation (ICAO), the UN agency that sets global safety and security standards.
Africa must continue to assert its presence on the global stage. The upcoming ICAO general assembly in 2025 presents a pivotal opportunity for Africa to ensure its voice is heard in global aviation policy discussions.
South Africa, alongside its African partners, is dedicated to ensuring that Africa’s unique concerns — ranging from safety and infrastructure to environmental sustainability — are addressed. This is a critical moment for us to advocate for policies that not only respond to our shared challenges but also support the sustainable growth of our aviation sector.
While we have made significant progress, we must not lose sight of the work still to be done. The future of Africa’s aviation sector will depend on our ability to work together as a unified continent — governments, airlines, aviation entities and international partners alike.
By collaborating, we can build a robust aviation ecosystem that is safe, sustainable and beneficial to all African nations. South Africa is proud to contribute to this vision and stands ready to collaborate with its partners to elevate the aviation industry across the continent.
The beautiful and vast world of aviation has taught us that the sky knows no limits; instead, it unveils new frontiers for us to explore.
In addition to our efforts within AFCAC and ICAO, South Africa is also playing a key role in global forums such as the G20, which holds its summit in Johannesburg in November next year — the first time it will be hosted in Africa.
As the current president of the G20, and its only African member, South Africa has a unique opportunity to advocate for the interests of the continent on the global stage. The G20 provides a platform where critical issues such as sustainable development, climate change and economic growth can be addressed, with aviation and its environmental impact featuring prominently in these discussions.
In line with our priorities in Africa, South Africa is actively working to ensure that the aviation sector is considered within the broader context of global economic policy. The G20 meetings present an important opportunity to push for stronger commitments to sustainability in aviation, and to ensure that African nations are adequately represented in these global policy-making processes.
• Creecy is the minister of transport. This article contains updated notes from the keynote speech she delivered at the 25-year commemoration of the Yamoussoukro Decision, held in Brazzaville on November 28.
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