2019 Akwaaba: AFRAA’s Director to lead discussion on Aviation Day
Africa’s aviation will take centre stage of discourse at the forthcoming Akwaaba African Travel Market scheduled for 22nd through 24th of September, 2019, as stakeholders will have a whole day to digest issues affecting growth of the industry.
Prominent among those that will lead proceedings on the special Aviation Day at this year’s Akwaaba is the newly appointed Director of Government, Legal and Industry Affairs for African Airlines Association (AFRAA), Aaron Munetsi.
Organisers of the event have confirmed that Aaron Munetsi, who has vast experience in the Aviation Industry, will be the lead speaker for the 2019 Akwaaba, African Travel Market Aviation Day.
The former Regional General Manager-Africa and the Middle East, South Africa Airways, SAA, was responsible for business development and stakeholder management at all levels.
His liaison office worked with host governments to obtain operating permits and support for South African Airways’ operations.
Munetsi’s vast experience on bilateral relationships among African states with regards to air service agreements has afforded him the opportunity to present a lead paper on the topic ‘Impact of Airport Development and Airlines on Tourism Growth in Africa.’
The 15th Edition of Akwaaba African Travel Market, which takes place at the Eko Hotel and Suites in Lagos, will create a strong platform for Aviation Day on the 24th day of the event, as it expects a large turnout of participants from far and near.
Giving more insight as to what should be expected at the 2019 Akwaaba Aviation Day, the chief organizer, Mr. Ikechi Uko said, “The 2019 aviation day event is expected to take a critical look at the contribution of airports and airlines to drive tourism in countries across the globe and Africa in particular.”
According to him, governments, all over the world, are becoming aware of the importance of tourism and the role it plays in contributing to its Gross Domestic Product (GDP), to the development of the economy.
“It is believed that airlines drive tourism growth, with the examples of Kenya Airways and South Africa Airways.
It is also believed that airports drive tourism growth, given the example that passenger volume surged by 25 percent at the upgraded Victoria Falls International Airport recently,” he added.
As noted by Mr. Ikechi Uko, the 2019 Akwaaba Aviation Day will x-ray the extent to which airport development and airlines drive tourism in Africa.
The event will feature presentations by notable aviation and travel professionals in the industry on issues concerning the sector.
It aims to stimulate discourse from renowned industry players in the Travel, Tourism and Aviation industry.
