Malawi has officially joined the Single African Air Transport Market (SAATM) – a step towards enhancing aviation connectivity across the continent.

The signing ceremony took place in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, during the 38th African Union (AU) Summit. Malawi’s Foreign Affairs Minister Nancy Tembo signed the SAATM Solemn Commitment in the presence of Dr Amani Abou-Zeid, outgoing AU Commissioner for Infrastructure and Energy, as well as officials from the Malawi Embassy in Addis Ababa and the AU.

The SAATM, a key initiative under the AU’s Agenda 2063, aims to create a unified air transport market across Africa to make air travel more seamless. A total of 38 African nations have committed to the agreement.

“As Malawi becomes the 38th nation to join the SAATM, we are making a powerful commitment to the integration of Africa,” said Tembo. “This move will not only strengthen our connectivity but also create new economic opportunities and foster cultural exchanges across the continent.”

By removing regulatory and operational barriers, the SAATM is expected to reduce airfares and increase flight options across Africa. The initiative is also expected to create employment in the aviation sector and drive growth in tourism, logistics and trade.