Independent regional airline Airlink has been awarded the 2025 Ubuntu Economic Diplomacy Award by South Africa’s Department of International Relations and Cooperation. The award, presented at a ceremony in Cape Town on February 10, recognises Airlink’s role in promoting South Africa as a business-friendly destination and supporting socio-economic goals such as job creation, trade and investment.

Airlink CEO Rodger Foster highlighted the significance of the award: “Ubuntu’s core principles are interdependence and interconnectivity. Connecting people with people and people with places is Airlink’s mission. This accolade confirms the positive impact of our services on the people, communities, markets and economies we serve and connect.”

Over the past four years, Airlink has expanded its network to include 47 destinations across 16 African countries and St Helena. It has increased flights by 31%, doubled seat capacity and grown passenger numbers by more than 200%. The airline has also secured 40 commercial partnerships with international carriers to enhance global trade and travel links.

“Africa hosts 18% of the global population yet accounts for less than 2% of air travel. This gap can surely be closed. To this end, we are committed to playing our part in facilitating economic growth and helping create jobs. After all, Ubuntu is ‘I am because we are,’” Foster added.

The award was presented by Ronald Lamola, Minister of International Relations and Cooperation.