AFRAA 56th AGA: Allan Kilavuka Appointed AFRAA Chair; Kenya Airways, Eswatini Air, Ethiopian Win Awards
Leadership Changes and African Airlines Recognition at AFRAA's 56th AGM in Cairo
The African Airlines Association (AFRAA) 56th Annual General Assembly & Summit, held recently in Cairo, Egypt—featured a leadership change within AFRAA and also recognised several airlines in Africa for their outstanding achievements.
Allan Kilavuka Appointed AFRAA Chair
Kenya Airways CEO, Mr. Allan Kilavuka, has been appointed as the new Chairperson of AFRAA. He succeeds Mr. João Carlos Pó Jorge, the outgoing Chairperson and CEO of LAM Mozambique.
Kilavuka will lead AFRAA for a one-year term with the possibility of renewal, focusing on strategic direction, member airline interests, and policies promoting growth, sustainability, and global competitiveness for the African aviation industry.
Mr. Kilavuka expressed his gratitude for the opportunity, highlighting his commitment to amplifying Africa’s voice in global aviation, fostering collaboration, and navigating the challenges African airlines face as well as seizing emerging opportunities.
“Together, we can advance Africa’s aviation industry to benefit all stakeholders and the communities we serve,” he remarked.
African Airlines Honoured for Excellence:
Ethiopian Airlines Takes Home “Airline of the Year – Global Operations” Award
Ethiopian Airlines Group CEO, Mr. Mesfin Tasew, celebrated the airline’s recognition as the “Airline of the Year – Global Operations.”
“This award mirrors our unwavering mission to enhance Africa’s connectivity and fuel economic growth. At Ethiopian Airlines, we don’t just fly; we connect dreams, cultures, and opportunities,” stated Mr. Tasew.
He acknowledged the tireless efforts of the airline’s management and staff, who are the backbone of their success. Mr.Tasew further extended his appreciation to AFRAA and fellow airlines for recognising Ethiopian Airlines‘ hard work.
Eswatini Air Wins “Airline of the Year – For Best Improved in Intra-Africa Connectivity for 2023 Operations”
Eswatini Air secured the “Airline of the Year – For Best Improved in Intra-Africa Connectivity for 2023 Operations” award.
Eswatini Air Board Chairman, Mndeni Mazibuko, emphasised the significance of intra-African connectivity as a cornerstone of African unity, economic transformation, and citizen empowerment.
“This accolade is meaningful because it celebrates one of the core pillars of African unity – connectivity. Intra-African connectivity is a necessity for economic transformation and the empowerment of citizenry as a whole.“
He attributed this success to the airline’s hardworking employees, the unwavering support of the Eswatini government, and the loyalty of their passengers.
Kenya Airways Secures “Airline of the Year Award – Best Improved Profitability”
Kenya Airways emerged victorious in the “Airline of the Year Award – Best Improved Profitability” category.
This award acknowledges the airline’s significant strides towards financial stability and, as noted by the airline, its pivotal role in shaping Africa’s aviation narrative.
