President Kagame Arrives in Togo for African Air Transport Convention and Expo

Kagame Joins Continental Aviation Leaders in Lomé

President Paul Kagame arrived in Lomé, Togo, on June 15, 2026, to participate in the African Air Transport Convention & Expo, a major gathering focused on the future of Africa’s aviation industry.

The event, running from June 15 to 19, brings together policymakers, aviation regulators, airline executives, airport operators, investors and development partners from across the continent.

According to Village Urugwiro, President Kagame is expected to deliver remarks during the conference and engage in discussions aimed at strengthening Africa’s air transport sector.

Focus on Africa’s Aviation Growth

The convention is jointly organized by the African Civil Aviation Commission and the African Union.

Participants will examine ways to improve air connectivity, enhance aviation infrastructure and strengthen cooperation among African countries.

A key objective of the event is advancing the Single African Air Transport Market, an African Union initiative designed to remove barriers to air travel and create a more integrated aviation network across the continent.

Supporters of the initiative believe it can boost trade, tourism, investment and regional integration by making air travel more accessible and efficient.

Building a More Connected Africa

Delegates are also expected to discuss strategies for developing a more resilient, competitive and sustainable aviation industry.

Industry leaders will explore solutions to challenges affecting the sector, including infrastructure gaps, operational costs, regulatory barriers and workforce development.

The conference aims to identify practical measures that can support economic growth while improving connectivity between African countries.

Kagame Expected to Hold Bilateral Talks

Alongside the aviation forum, President Kagame is expected to hold bilateral discussions with Togolese President Faure Essozimna Gnassingbé.

The talks are expected to focus on strengthening cooperation between Rwanda and Togo, as well as broader regional and continental development priorities.

Rwanda’s Continued Support for Aviation Development

The previous edition of the African aviation forum took place in Kigali in September 2025.

Speaking during that event, President Kagame highlighted the growing importance of air transport in supporting Africa’s economic transformation.

“In the coming years, the number of people using air transport in Africa is expected to nearly double. Significant efforts are being made at the continental level to open up our skies through various initiatives,” Kagame said.

He also noted that Rwanda had removed visa requirements for all African nationals as part of efforts to promote the free movement of people across the continent.

Aviation Seen as Driver of Jobs and Innovation

President Kagame has consistently emphasized the role of aviation in creating employment opportunities and supporting innovation.

He has also called for greater participation of women and young people in the aviation industry to help build a stronger and more inclusive sector.

At the same time, he has acknowledged the challenges facing African aviation, including rising operational costs and limited infrastructure in some regions.

Rwanda’s national carrier, RwandAir, continues to expand its route network as part of the country’s broader strategy to strengthen regional and international connectivity.

The African Air Transport Convention & Expo is expected to provide a platform for governments and industry leaders to explore solutions that can accelerate the growth of Africa’s aviation sector and advance the vision of a more connected continent.