Provide air connectivity for Africa to develop - President

By Morkporkpor Anku, GNA

Accra, Oct. 25, GNA - President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo on Wednesday opened the First Africa Airshow with the call on stakeholders to provide air connectivity to develop African economies.

He said the vision of government was to make Ghana, the aviation hub of Africa providing connectivity to the sub-region.

President Akufo-Addo was speaking at the opening of the First Aerospace and Aviation Exhibition of West Africa in Accra on the theme: "Connecting Aviation Professionals across All Areas of the Industry with the African Market".

The event, which is the first Aerospace and Aviation Exhibition in West Africa, would provide an opportunity for manufacturers and service providers in the sector to explore and meet potential customers.

It was also put together with the view towards positioning the African Aviation Industry at the forefront of regional and global interests.

President Akufo-Addo commended the Minister of Aviation for organizing the event to showcase businesses, network and promote the Aviation industry.

He said air transport was an industry that served as a catalyst that promoted the aviation industry and socio-economic growth.

He said Airports supported 6.8 million jobs in Africa and the growth of Ghana's aviation was 7.9 per cent per annum.

He said the government re-created the Aviation Ministry and made it highly competitive in the promotion of the industry.

He explained that the Ministry was spearheading in making the country's airport to be one of the best in Africa.

The projects include the construction of the terminal 3, modern navigating systems, the construction of the Phase II of the Tamale and Kumasi Airports.

He said government has given policy approval for the establishment of a National carrier to enhance the needed connectivity in Africa.

He said Ghana has shown immense commitment to the African connectivity by signing on to the Yamoussoukro agreement, where 44 African leaders signed to ensure African connectivity.

President Akufo-Addo said government has been creating the conditions for the private sector to venture into the aviation industry.

He announced to the gathering that Mr Asamoah Gyan, the Black Stars Captain has obtained a license from the government to operate an airline in the country.

"The airline, Baby Jet Airlines is expected to commence operations soon," he added.

The President said government was poised to creating a people friendly economy in Africa for doing business, whilst promoting the development of the economy.

He, therefore, called on the investor community to partner with their Ghanaian counterparts to network and engage in business operations to the benefit of all.

He commended the Ghana Airport Company for winning a safety awards for their security measures.

Mrs Cecilia Abena Dapaah, the Minister of Aviation, said the outlook for the Aviation industry remained bright.

She said the topics and panelist have been carefully chosen to deliberate on issues and would promote the interest of the industry.

GNA

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