Source: Emirates Skycargo
Emirates Sky Cargo and Kenya-based cargo ship operator Astral Air have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) examining ways to increase connectivity to the African continent.
Under the terms of the MOU, Emirates SkyCargo and Astral Air will work closely with many initiatives, including expanding interline options for cargo and expanding space contracts, increasing connectivity and increasing the scope of African companies.
The deal was signed at the Air Cargo Africa event by Badru Abbas, senior vice president of Emirates Sky Cargo, and Sanji Fugadia, CEO of Astral Airlines.
The companies said the partnership highlights Africa's growing excellence as a competitive player in global trade, saying they have experience in handling sensitive cargo, including fresh fruits, vegetables and life-saving medicines. I added. Continent.
Abbas said: “11 of the 20 fastest growing economies, coupled with bold trade ambitions, have great growth potential in Africa. Our network, all wide body fleets, and our specialty product portfolio Given the breadth of the world, we are suited to help our businesses reach new suppliers and customers in every corner of the world.
“This partnership with Astral Airlines solidifies our long-standing commitment to the market and creates mutually beneficial economic opportunities to keep our products fast, reliably and efficiently.”
Gadia added: “Today, we are serving a pivotal step in our over 15 years of commercial partnership, reflecting our shared vision to enhance air cargo solutions from and within and within Africa. Together, we Unlock new opportunities, drive innovation and strengthen global trade connectivity.”
Emirates added that economic investment cooperation between the United Arab Emirates and Africa is on the rise, saying the UAE is the number one Gulf Cooperation Council and the fourth largest global investor in Africa. .
Recently, the UAE and Kenya have entered into a groundbreaking comprehensive economic partnership agreement (CEPA) to accelerate trade and investment in agriculture, infrastructure, healthcare, travel and tourism, financial services and renewable energy. The airline noted that it had signed the signature.
“The agreement between Emirates Sky Cargo and Astral Airlines will lay the foundation for further growth by supporting thriving relationships, improving trade flows and creating new opportunities to strengthen the global economy,” the airline said. said.
“This will also help us achieve the African Continental Free Trade Area (AFCFTA) goal, which aims to increase Africa's exports to the world by 32% by 2035.”
Currently, Skycargo Emirates offers its customers seven scheduled cargo ships and bellyhold capacity with 172 passenger flights per week to 20 African destinations.
Meanwhile, Astral has hubs in Nairobi, Johannesburg, Liege and Dubai.