Aviation AFRICA 2025: Innovation and Collaboration Take Center Stage in Kigali
Kigali hosts Aviation Africa event, September 4-5, 2025
The Aviation AFRICA Summit and Exhibition 2025 returns to Kigali, Rwanda and is poised to showcase the significant advancements propelling Africa’s aviation sector.
The event, officially hosted by the Government of Rwanda, the Rwanda Civil Aviation Authority, RwandAir, and Rwanda Airports Company, promises a comprehensive look at the continent’s aviation future.
Unlocking Africa’s Growth Through Collaboration
Under the theme “Collaborating to unlock Africa’s aviation growth,” the summit convenes key stakeholders from across the industry.
Leaders from government, civil aviation authorities, airlines, airports, manufacturers, MRO providers, and business aviation, alongside suppliers, will converge to discuss strategies and challenges.
Notably, RwandAir CEO Yvonne Makolo will unveil the airline’s growth plans, particularly in relation to the new Kigali International Airport at Bugesera.
Infrastructure and Security Take Center Stage
The Bugesera airport, upon completion, will boast a 130,000-square-meter terminal, capable of handling 8 million passengers annually, with future expansion potential to exceed 14 million. A dedicated cargo terminal will manage 150,000 tons of cargo yearly.
Dar Al-Handasah, a key design and engineering partner, will sponsor the event and discuss the airport’s development.
Infrastructure challenges across African airports and heightened security measures will also be prominent topics.
Advanced Air Mobility and Regulatory Developments
The 2025 summit will feature an in-depth exploration of advanced air mobility, in collaboration with the African Drone Forum.
An eVTOL aircraft display is anticipated, and Ethiopian Airlines will detail its plans for an air taxi network. Manufacturer Archer will provide support for the network’s deployment.
Regulators, including the RCAA and AFCAC, will address the evolving regulatory landscape, including the SAATM initiative.
Geopolitical Challenges and Industry Collaboration
Airlines Association of Southern Africa (AASA) CEO Aaron Munetsi will lead a panel addressing geopolitical and internal challenges hindering aviation growth.
Emphasising collaboration, Munetsi aims to dissect the current industry dynamics.
Safety, risk management, air traffic management, wildlife threats, sustainability, and MRO will also be key discussion points, with support from AFRAA and AfBAA.
Manufacturer Insights and Networking Opportunities
Aircraft manufacturers Airbus, Boeing, and Embraer will provide insights into the projected growth of African air travel.
Summit chairman Alan Peaford highlights the event’s role as a vital networking platform, facilitating connections between suppliers, customers, and authorities.