Keyamo Looks Into The Future Of Travel In Africa at Technology Expo
Nigeria’s Minister of Aviation & Aerospace Development, Barrister Festus Keyamo (SAN) says “The Future of African Travel” is a narrative of progress, collaboration, and sustainability. Together, let us embrace innovation, explore new horizons, and pave the way for a future where African travels are not just a journey but a testament to the boundless spirit of our continent.”
Speaking yesterday at the Sabre Technology Expo held at Civic Centre, Lagos, Nigeria, Keyamo shared “insights into the transformative journey that awaits our continent as it relates to travel experience.”
He said the five-point agenda he developed on assumption of office as Minister of Aviation & Aerospace Development namely ensuring strict compliance with safety regulations and continuous upward movement of Nigeria’s (and by extension Africa) rating by ICAO, supporting the growth and sustenance of local airline businesses whilst holding them to the highest international standards in the aviation industry, pursuing vigorously the Improvement of infrastructures in the aviation industry, constantly developing human capacity within the industry and striving to optimize revenue generation for the federal government were all articulated to chart a new course for the attainment of an enviable and extremely vibrant aviation sector in Africa.
Keyamo further said: “In the past-evolving landscape of aviation and aerospace, Africa stands at almost the bottom of innovation in the sector. But I am confident to state here, unequivocally, that Africa is poised to occupy its rightful position in the interplay of technology and enhanced travel experience. Our commitment to progress is unwavering, and today, we celebrate the technological advancements that will shape the future of travel for generations to come.
The skies above Africa are ready for a revolution. Nigeria and many other African countries like Egypt, Ethiopia and Kenya are investing in cutting-edge aircraft, embracing sustainable aviation fuels, improving infrastructure, and fostering partnerships that will propel us into a new era of connectivity. By harnessing emerging technologies, we aim to create an aviation sector that is not only efficient but also environmentally conscious.
In the coming years, you can expect to witness the rise of smart airports equipped with artificial intelligence, enhancing passenger experiences from check-in to boarding. We envision a seamless journey facilitated by biometric authentication, reducing wait times and ensuring security. We have played the catch-up game for too long. The energy is soaring and the determination to step out of the backwoods of development is electric.
Space exploration, once a distant dream, is now within our reach in the continent. Africa is poised to contribute to the exploration of the cosmos, opening new frontiers and opportunities for scientific collaboration. The development of satellite technologies will not only bolster communication and navigation but also play a pivotal role in monitoring and managing our precious natural resources. We may be at the early stages of this developmental trajectory, but the reality is so palpable and the time to flourish is here.
As we chart the course for the future, inclusivity is paramount. Africa is committed to developing aviation infrastructure that connects even the remotest corners of our continent, fostering economic growth and cultural exchange. The African skies should be accessible to all, and we are actively working towards affordable air travel for every citizen. Nations like Nigeria are poised to build a hub to enhance connectivity. From advancements in technology to the expansion of our aviation infrastructure, Africa is undoubtedly on a path towards greater heights in the travel domain.
The relentless efforts of our researchers, engineers, and aviation professionals have propelled Africa into a position of recognition and respect on the international stage. Many of our pilots trained in Africa are in high demands in different parts of the world. At the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) headquarters in Montreal, Africa occupies an enviable pedestal that confers on us a prominent position in the aviation sector in the world.
African countries are making significant strides in fostering partnerships with leading aerospace nations, engaging in collaborative research, and actively contributing to the development of cutting-edge technologies. This collaborative spirit is key to enhancing travel experience in Africa.
As we discuss Africa’s optimal growth in the aviation industry, we must also acknowledge the pivotal role of education and training. Our focus on developing a skilled workforce is instrumental in sustaining our growth and ensuring that our professionals can compete globally. Whether it is infrastructural improvements, regulatory enhancements, or the nurturing of local innovation, our resolve must remain steadfast.
The numbers of our local airlines in Africa are today streamlined to enable us to attain sustainable growth. From the quality of aircraft African countries deploy in our skies to their operational services, veritable regulatory standards are put in place to support the airlines in competing confidently in the global arena. We recognize the immense regulatory prop from ICAO, but view this as the basis and inspiration to become better and vigorously ready to take the world.”
