The seventh edition of the Air Cargo Africa Conference opened its doors in Nairobi last week, marking the first time the event has been held in Kenya. The conference brought together over 60 exhibitors and over 2,000 attendees, among them industry leaders and stakeholders, to explore the future of air cargo, transportation, and logistics across the continent. It was held alongside the inaugural Transport Logistics Africa, thus providing a platform to showcase innovations and discuss the sector’s role in economic growth, regional integration, and Africa’s emergence as a global logistics hub.
Key themes at this year’s event included strengthening multi-modal transport solutions, embracing innovation, advancing sustainability, and driving growth in Africa’s logistics industry.
Welcoming participants, Robert Schoenberger, Exhibition Group Director at Messe München, said: “Welcome to Kenya! We wish you great conversations, productive meetings, and a successful event. Let’s make the most of these days together.”
Kenya Airports Authority Chairman Hon. Caleb Kositany emphasized the significance of the discussions. “I am certain that the next three days will be filled with conversations and activities aimed at fostering collaboration and innovation in the airfreight and transport logistics sector,” he stated.
Kenya Airways Managing Director and CEO Allan Kilavuka highlighted the crucial role of logistics in Africa’s development. “Our continent is rich in resources, talent, and potential. However, we are not yet competing at the level we should be. Unlocking this potential requires proper logistics, organization, and capacity, alongside solutions for infrastructure deficits and regulatory challenges,” he said. “Collaboration, innovation, and a shared vision will be key to growing the industry and strengthening African economies.”
Echoing this sentiment, Kenya Civil Aviation Authority Director General Emile Arao stressed the importance of supporting the industry’s growth. “There is a significant market gap, but also enormous potential that can be harnessed through new technologies,” he noted. “For instance, innovations such as venture airliners with balloons or airships are emerging, promising more efficient carbon transport. At KCAA, we are proactively exploring what needs to be done to facilitate these advancements so that when investors and innovators come forward, we are ready to support them.”