Tuesday, May 20, 2025
The launch of the Single African Air Market (SAAM) tells the historical and transformative moment of African Airlines driven by the unwavering commitment of Nigeria, Ghana, Liberia, Sierra Leone, Guinea-Conacree, Cape Verde and Gambia. This bold new initiative aims to break through years of barriers to the continental aviation sector and pave the way for a more interconnected, competitive and efficient air travel network. By embracing this unified approach, these countries not only strengthen regional cooperation, but also position Africa as a key player in the global aviation environment. Saam's rapid and unstoppable development marks the beginning of a new era of aviation in Africa. The aviation will be standardized with seamless connectivity, increased access and reduced costs, driving economic growth and strengthening tourism, trade and investment across the continent. Through these countries' collaboration, Saam is set to revolutionize African skies, fostering levels of integration and cooperation that will provide widespread benefits for years to come.
The 18th overall session of the Banjuru Accord Group (Bag) began in Abuja marked the decisive moments of African Airlines as key stakeholders, including representatives from Nigeria, Ghana, Liberia, Sierra Leone, Guinea Conea, Sierra Conelee, Cape Belldo and Gambia. This groundbreaking initiative aims to significantly reduce travel costs, increase connectivity and promote seamless air travel across the continent. During the three-day session, aviation leaders reinforced their commitment to align national policies with the provisions of the SAATM and ensuring that the revised principles of the initiative are fully integrated into the regulatory framework, paving the way for a new era of efficient and affordable air travel in Africa.
The 18th overall session of Banjuru Accord Group (Bag) began in Abuja and focuses on the urgent need to implement a single African Air Transport Market (SAATM). The initiative aims to reduce the cost of air travel while increasing connectivity across the African continent. The three-day meeting brought together key aviation stakeholders, including the Civil Aviation Authority (DGCAS) from various Bag Member States, including Nigeria, Ghana, Liberia, Sierra Leone, Guinea-Conacree, Cape Verde and Gambia.
Opening Nigerian Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development Festus Keamo highlighted the important role of SAATM in improving air connection times, reducing travel times and optimizing user satisfaction due to low passenger costs. He emphasized that the initiative aligns with the broader goal of promoting economic integration within Africa by making air travel more affordable and accessible.
Keeamo's comments were echoed by Adefunke Adeemi, executive director of the African Civil Aviation Council (AFCAC). Adeyemi emphasized the urgent need for Bag member states to incorporate SAATM provisions into the national policy and legislative framework. This ensures a smooth transition to fully embrace the revised principles of the initiative, designed to cultivate a more integrated and competitive aviation sector across the continent.
An important point of discussion was the importance of strengthening regulatory bodies to ensure effective governance and enforcement of aviation policies. Adeyemi urged all member countries to work towards reforming the aviation sector to meet the growing demand in the regional and international travel markets. The success of the implementation of SAATM depends not only on the political will but also on the creation of robust regulatory bodies that can effectively oversee sector growth.
Senator Buhari Abdulfatay, chair of the Aviation Senate Committee, represented by Senator Augustine Akobundu, also considered the discussion. He reiterated his full commitment to the purpose of the Nigerian Parliament's Bag and his full commitment to the creation of a harmonious West African aviation community. According to Akobundu, this commitment will involve legislative reforms to support the smooth integration of SAATM in national air transport policy.
A call for action arises as the African aviation sector continues to face many challenges, including high airfares, limited connectivity and fragmented regulations that hinder the growth of the sector. SAATM was established to address these challenges by encouraging the free movement of aviation services and creating a more integrated aviation market. This is considered important to boost in African trade, tourism and economic growth, and attracts international investment in the region.
The SAATM is part of the broader African Union (AU) Agenda 2063, envisioning a continent that is economically integrated, interconnected and self-sufficient. By reducing air travel barriers and allowing airlines to operate more freely across African borders, the initiative aims to unlock the full potential of the aviation sector as a driver of economic growth. Research shows that improving aviation connectivity can significantly increase two key areas of the African Union's development agenda: trade and tourism.
Although the implementation of SAATM has faced some delays, recent developments are promising. Several African countries have expressed support for the initiative, many have already signed the necessary protocols. However, a full implementation requires a harmony of continent-wide policy, regulatory frameworks, and infrastructure. This means that the country must work closer together to ensure seamless airline operations and effective regulation of airspace.
One of the main goals of the SAATM is to open up African skies by allowing African Airlines to operate across the continent without the need for restrictive bilateral agreements. This will increase competition, lower prices and increase flight options for passengers. Furthermore, Africa Airlines can expand its business and increase its global competitiveness.
A key challenge in the successful implementation of SAATM is the development level disparity in the aviation sectors of various African countries. While some countries have established aviation infrastructure, others are still working to improve their air transport systems. This uneven development can interfere with the smooth operation of SAATM. This is because all participating countries need to meet certain standards in terms of air safety, regulatory frameworks and infrastructure.
Despite these challenges, Bagplenary reaffirmed its members' commitment to pushing the implementation of SAATM. The organization has committed to continuing to work closely with regional and international organizations, including the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO), to ensure that the African aviation sector is better integrated into the global transport network.
Bag members also discussed various strategies to overcome existing barriers to implementing SAATM. One of these strategies is to provide technical and financial support to countries that may combat the resources needed to meet the required aviation standards. Additionally, the bag focuses on capacity building programs that strengthen the skills of aviation professionals across the continent, ensuring their ability to manage evolving challenges in the sector.
In his closing remarks, Festus Keiamo urged all bag members to continue prioritizing the SAATM goals and work together to build a more integrated and sustainable African aviation market. He called on African governments to ensure that their national policies and regulations are in line with the objectives of the SAATM, highlighting the importance of collective action in achieving the desired outcome.
As the Plenary Conference progresses, it is clear that the implementation of SAATM is important for the future of air transport in Africa. By reducing high travel costs, increasing connectivity and encouraging greater competition, this initiative could change the aviation landscape across the continent. With continued commitment and collaboration from all stakeholders, the dream of a more connected, economically integrated Africa could soon become a reality.
The entire 18th installment of the Banjuru Accord Group (Bag) was launched in Abuja with representatives from Nigeria, Ghana, Liberia, Sierra Leone, Guinea Konacree, Cape Verde and Gambia. The purpose of this conference is to align national policy with the revised principles of the SAATM for a more integrated and efficient African aviation sector.
Nigeria, Ghana, Liberia, Sierra Leone, Guinea Konacree, Cape Verde and Gambia are leading the transformational change in African Aviation with the rapid launch of a single African Aviation Market, a bold initiative aimed at promoting seamless connectivity, reducing travel costs and promoting economic growth across the continent.
In conclusion, the emergency implementation of the Single African Air Transport Market (SAATM) remains an important priority for African aviation stakeholders. As Banjul Accord Group (Bag) continues to encourage efforts to improve air connectivity and reduce travel costs, the success of the SAATM realization will not only strengthen regional integration, but also unlock important economic opportunities for the continent. Through strengthening collective action, sustainable political will, and regulatory frameworks, the African aviation sector can reach new heights and benefit both tourists and the wider economy.
