African Aviation Leaders Back ICAO’s Digitization Drive

The International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) held discussions in Yaoundé, Cameroon, and African aviation leaders decided to prioritize the adoption of ICAO's digitization programs and the development of stronger regional networks in order to revolutionize air travel.

With 32 nations and 8 organizations participating, together with 272 representatives from aviation officials and operators, customs, immigration, law enforcement, and public health agencies, the two-day ICAO Regional Facilitation Forum proved to be a great success. During the opening and closing ceremonies, H.E. addressed on behalf of the event's sponsor, Cameroon President Paul Biya.

Cameroon's Secretary General and Minister of State is Ferdinand Ngoh Ngoh.

Prioritizing better care for victims of aircraft accidents and increasing accessibility for people with impairments in civil aviation were two important results of the event.

Through 2050, the ICAO projects that passenger growth in African aviation will outpace global rates, underscoring the urgency of taking action and inspiring these objectives.

ICAO Secretary General Juan Carlos Salazar said in his concluding remarks that although aviation is still growing and developing, especially in underserved regions, it is important to share knowledge concerning regional implementation possibilities in Yaoundé today. The priorities established will help stakeholders across Africa and the Indian Ocean region fully realize the benefits of aviation, with the important perspectives shared here right away impacting their global efforts.

ICAO organized the gathering to ensure that Africa's expertise and objectives will directly feed its global Facilitation Symposium in April. Discussions at this symposium will help determine the strategic direction of international civil aviation for the coming years, which will be decided during the 42nd session of the ICAO Assembly in September, to which all 193 Member States will be invited.