Iata’s Focus Africa conference will take place in Addis Ababa from June 20-21, with Ethiopian Airlines as host. The intention of the conference is to drive Iata’s Focus Africa agenda and initiatives.

The association said the event will look at six priorities under the Focus Africa agenda, which aims to strengthen aviation’s contribution to Africa’s economic and social development and improve connectivity, safety and reliability for passengers and shippers.

Director General Willie Walsh said: “Over the next 15 years, Africa’s passenger traffic is expected to double. The continent stands out as the region with the greatest potential and opportunity for aviation. But this potential is limited by infrastructure constraints, high costs, lack of connectivity, regulatory impediments, slow adoption of global standards and skills shortages, among other factors. The Focus Africa Conference will bring together the continent’s key stakeholders to address these challenges.”

Ethiopian Airlines Group CEO Mesfin Tasew, who will deliver the opening address, said: “Advancing the air transport industry is critical for Africa’s economic growth. The conference will allow industry leaders to join forces and drive the Focus Africa initiative.”

Speakers include Rwandair CEO Yvonne Makolo, Afacac Secretary General Adefunke Adeyemi, Afraa Secretary General Abdulrahman Berthe, Aasa CEO Aaron Munetsi, Airlink CEO Rodger Foster, SA CAA Director General Poppy Khoza and FAA Deputy Administrator Bradley Mims.

Click here to view the programme and register.