Lomé, the vibrant capital of Togo, is set to become the epicenter of African aviation discussions next year, hosting the African Air Transport Convention and Exhibition from 15 to 19 June 2026. This high-profile event, organized by the African Civil Aviation Commission (AFCAC), will bring together key stakeholders to shape the future trajectory of the continent’s aviation sector.
a continental gathering with far-reaching goals
The summit, held under the patronage of Faure Essozimna Gnassingbé, President of the Togolese Republic, and in partnership with the African Union Commission, aims to fast-track the implementation of the Single African Air Transport Market (SAATM). This initiative seeks to dismantle barriers, enhance connectivity, and foster a unified aviation ecosystem across Africa.
who will be in attendance?
Over 500 delegates are expected, including ministers, regulatory bodies, airline executives, airport managers, investors, development institutions, and international partners. The event will see the participation of prominent figures such as:
- Lerato Dorothy Mataboge, Commissioner for Infrastructure and Energy at the African Union;
- Wamkele Mene, Secretary-General of the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA);
- Nardos Bekele-Thomas, CEO of the African Union Development Agency-NEPAD.
Representatives from the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO), Airports Council International Africa (ACI Africa), International Air Transport Association (IATA), the Togolese government, and AFCAC will also contribute to the deliberations.
key themes and expected outcomes
The five-day program will delve into critical topics, including:
- Market integration: Strategies to deepen air transport liberalization and boost intra-African connectivity;
- Cargo and trade corridors: Enhancing efficiency in freight movement and logistics;
- Investments and infrastructure: Mobilizing funding for airports and aviation networks;
- Technological innovation: Leveraging digital solutions to modernize the sector;
- Sustainable aviation: Promoting eco-friendly fuels and reducing carbon footprints.
The discussions will align with the African Union’s Agenda 2063 and the AfCFTA objectives, focusing on reducing air travel costs, improving infrastructure financing, and accelerating digital transformation in aviation.
anticipated breakthroughs
Organizers anticipate tangible progress, including the adoption of the Lomé Ministerial Declaration, the launch of the African Route Development Platform (ARDP), and the establishment of new cooperation and investment frameworks. These measures aim to create a more competitive and integrated African air transport market, positioning the continent as a global aviation hub.
