ECOWAS is preparing to host a series of meetings from November 5-8, 2024, in Lomé, Togo. The gatherings will bring together aviation ministers, directors general of civil aviation, officials, and industry stakeholders. This initiative follows a directive from the 65th Heads of State Summit held in July 2024. The aim is to tackle ongoing challenges in the aviation sector by focusing on reducing operational costs and unifying safety protocols to enhance regional connectivity and economic cooperation.
The meetings will commence with expert-level consultations from November 5-7, setting the stage for a high-level ministerial session on November 8. Discussions will focus on regional strategies to gradually reduce aviation fees and taxes while harmonizing safety measures. These reforms are intended to make air travel more accessible and affordable, aligning with ECOWAS' broader agenda to deepen regional integration through increased connectivity, mobility, and trade.
ECOWAS assessments indicate that charges imposed by airport operators, air navigation service providers, civil aviation authorities, and government taxes have significant negative impacts on the region's air transport industry. They also affect wider economic and employment development in ECOWAS member states. Additionally, these charges adversely impact the competitiveness of regional airlines struggling against competition from foreign carriers.
West Africa's aviation sector is currently among the most expensive on the continent. Reforms aimed at reducing air travel costs are expected to open new opportunities in tourism, education, health care, commerce, and other key economic sectors. These efforts align with the African Union’s Single African Air Transport Market (SAATM) and the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) frameworks.
The outcomes of the Lomé meeting will be pivotal for the December 2024 ECOWAS Council of Ministers Session and Heads of State and Governments Summit. At these events, final cost reduction strategies are expected to be adopted. Stakeholders and member states are encouraged to engage actively to ensure swift progress towards a more competitive and sustainable aviation sector.
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