The International Air Cargo Association and the African Airlines Association have signed a memorandum of understanding to collaborate on issues affecting air cargo, such as security and digitization.
Under the MoU, signed at the 49th annual general assembly of AFRAA in Kigali, Rwanda, TIACA will collaborate with AFRAA’s 40 members from across the aviation sector to support the rapidly developing air cargo sector in Africa. The two associations will work to improve air cargo safety and security, champion industry adoption of digitization, and offer new training initiatives.
“This is a landmark agreement that allows TIACA to offer its expertise to the much larger group of airlines in Africa,” said Vladimir Zubkov [centre in photo], secretary general of TIACA. “TIACA stands to benefit from better connection with the continent, which is the fastest-developing in air cargo movement. We are happy to offer assistance from TIACA in structuring the air cargo part of the future AFRAA agenda.”
Other areas of cooperation include advocating for improved market access across the continent, the modernization of air cargo facilities and services, promoting environmental best practice, and working together on future events.
“It is indeed important that the oft-neglected cargo sector receives the attention it deserves at AFRAA forums and conferences,” said Elijah Chingosho [third from right in photo], secretary general of AFRAA. “Indeed, our association with TIACA, of which Vladimir has played a large role, will significantly help our airlines in developing their cargo sector. AFRAA appreciates TIACA’s attendance at our AGA, participating in panel discussions and raising critical cargo and other issues, as well as our two organizations signing the MoU.”
Sanjeev Gadhia [third from left in photo], who is founder and chief executive officer of Nairobi-headquartered Astral Aviation Ltd, as well as vice chairman of the AFRAA Cargo Task Force, was recently appointed to the TIACA board of directors.
“As a member of AFRAA and TIACA, I am delighted with the signing of the MoU which is a major step in recognizing the importance of the African aviation sector,” he said. “The MoU will benefit not only the members of both associations but will bring immense value in terms of networking, training and knowledge.”
A total of 37 airlines are members of AFRAA.
