The event is touted as a vibrant platform for thought leaders and stakeholders to connect, collaborate and exchange groundbreaking insights, experiences and strategies that will shape the future of travel and aviation.
Kigali plans to welcome more than 400 aviation leaders, experts and innovators from around the world on the 13th for the African Aviation Association (AFRAA) Air Stakeholders Treaty and the African Aviation Association (AFRAA) in May this year.
The 13th AFRAA Air Stakeholders Convention and the 2nd Africa Safety and Operations Summit bring together the pioneers of the aviation and travel ecosystem.
This annual event, May 11-14, is designed to spark meaningful dialogue, spark innovation and build a strong and sustainable network across the industry.
These twin events bring over 400 representatives from Africa and beyond, and will highlight innovation, collaboration and resilience in the aviation sector.
This year's convention is based on the theme of “Sustainability, Collaboration, Innovation,” but the safety summit will be carried out under the theme of “Strengthening the safety culture of Africa's resilient aviation.”
Hosted by official airline Rwandair and led by the African Aviation Association (AFRAA) in collaboration with the Flight Safety Foundation (FSF), the weekly convened is designed to promote strong conversations, partnerships, and policies that shape the future of air transport across the continent.
Abderahmane Berthe, executive director of Afraa, said the event provides an important platform to address the issues that are most important to African airlines.
“These forums are essential to exchange insights, building synergies and ensuring growth in the connected, sustainable African aviation industry,” he said.
Rwandair CEO Yvonne Makoro said Kigali is proud to host industry leaders as the continent rethinks its aviation strategy.
“Sustainability is a top priority. Investing in fuel-efficient aircraft, exploring sustainable aviation fuels, and reducing the environmental footprint is no longer an option,” she said.
“We must also seek more cooperation to strengthen African Aviation's position on the global map.”
Dr Hassan Shahidi, president and CEO of Flight Safety Foundation, noted that improving safety standards for African aviation is a cultural challenge, not a technical one.
“The Safety Summit will focus on strengthening a comprehensive safety culture: building resilience, sharing best practices and staying ahead of evolving risks,” he said.
Beyond policy debates, the conventions and summits will showcase exhibitions, workshops and B2B engagement aimed at strengthening networks across the aviation value chain, from airlines and regulators to airports, manufacturers and service providers.
Countering Rwanda's breathtaking scenery and famous hospitality, the event promises an exciting atmosphere that will advance the African aviation agenda.
Although safety has improved significantly over the past decade, African aviation continues to face challenges due to infrastructure gaps, regulatory integrity and resource limitations.
According to IATA, while the continent's safety performance continues to improve, such joint efforts remain important to meet global standards, reduce accident rates, and build trust among tourists and investors.
