Kenya has reaffirmed its leadership in fostering sustainable development in Africa by aligning its aviation and tourism sectors to drive inclusive economic growth. This was highlighted during the 2nd UN Tourism and ICAO Africa Ministerial Summit held in Luanda, Angola.
The high-level summit brought together ministers, policymakers, and industry leaders to unlock the potential of aviation and tourism as key drivers of Africa’s economic transformation. Key themes included the removal of regulatory barriers, enhancing mobility, and promoting cross-border collaboration.
Leading Kenya’s delegation, Principal Secretary for Aviation and Aerospace Development Teresia Mbaika underscored the country’s commitment to integrated policy-making. “Kenya is fully committed to strengthening the link between the aviation and tourism sectors to foster job creation, drive investment, and boost destination competitiveness,” said PS Mbaika. She cited the recent visa-free entry for all African nationals as a bold step toward seamless connectivity.
PS Mbaika emphasized Kenya’s focus on improving immigration efficiency, upgrading post-arrival connectivity, and building inclusive infrastructure at key entry points to enhance the travel experience. On the summit’s sidelines, she met with ICAO Council President Salvatore Sciacchitano, expressing gratitude for ICAO’s continued support. Sciacchitano praised Kenya’s establishment of a dedicated State Department for Aviation and Aerospace Development, calling it a visionary move.
In a bilateral meeting with Angola’s Transport Minister Ricardo Daniel Sandão, Kenya and Angola agreed to review their Bilateral Air Services Agreement (BASA), collaborate on aviation regulations, and consider reciprocal visa arrangements to boost tourism and trade. PS Mbaika also toured Angola’s new Dr. Antonio Agostinho Neto International Airport, stressing Kenya’s need to modernize its aviation infrastructure to meet growing demand.
She invited the Angolan minister to Kenya aboard TAAG Angola Airlines’ inaugural direct flight to Nairobi, scheduled for September 2025 a milestone in aviation diplomacy.
Kenya’s delegation included Ambassador Joyce M’maitsi and representatives from the Ministries of Transport, Tourism, and Agriculture. Through a whole-of-government strategy, Kenya is evaluating its air transport market to align access with demand and maximize economic gains.
This unified approach highlights Kenya’s intent to position itself as a hub for air travel and tourism in Africa.
