AFRICAN aviation ministers have adopted the Lomé Declaration and Implementation Matrix to accelerate the Single African Air Transport Market (SAATM) and the broader Yamoussoukro Decision, signalling renewed political and operational commitment to a unified “Single African Sky.” The agreement, reached during the African Air Transport Convention and Expo 2026 in Lomé, TOGO, focuses on removing market access barriers, liberalising air services, and improving regulatory predictability to make AFRICAN air travel more accessible, affordable, and connected. Key outcomes include a new AFCAC Solidarity Commitment (2026–2028) to mobilise funding and technical support for implementation, as well as a harmonised continental framework to reduce excessive aviation taxes, fees, and charges. Ministers also prioritised investment in climate-resilient infrastructure, air cargo corridors aligned with AfCFTA trade flows, sustainable aviation fuels, and human capital development, including greater inclusion of women and youth. With 35 countries already participating in SAATM, the initiative is positioned as a major step toward unlocking jobs, boosting GDP, and strengthening intra-AFRICAN connectivity.
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