Ethiopian to host IATA’s Focus Africa Conference next month

Addis Ababa, May 15, 2023 (FBC) – Ethiopian Airlines is set to host the 2023 Focus Africa Conference in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, from June 20 to 21, 2023, the International Air Transport Association (IATA) announced.

IATA’s official press release earlier today indicated that the Focus Africa Conference will delve into six priorities under IATA’s Focus Africa initiative to strengthen aviation’s contribution to the continent’s economic and social development and improve connectivity, safety and reliability for passengers and shippers.

IATA also confirmed that Mesfin Tasew, Group CEO of Ethiopian Airlines, will deliver an Opening Keynote Address at the event.

Speaking ahead of the conference, Mesfin stated that Ethiopian is delighted to host IATA’s Focus Africa Conference and welcome the aviation industry to our home, Addis Ababa.

“Advancing the air transport industry is critical for Africa’s economic growth. The conference will allow industry leaders to join forces and drive the Focus Africa initiative,” said Mesfin.

For his part, Willie Walsh, IATA’s Director General, said; “Over the next 15 years, Africa’s passenger traffic is expected to double. The continent stands out as the region with the greatest potential and opportunity for aviation. But this potential is limited by infrastructure constraints, high costs, lack of connectivity, regulatory impediments, slow adoption of global standards and skills shortages, among other factors.”

It is stated that the Focus Africa Conference will bring together the continent’s key stakeholders to address these challenges.

The conference’s session tracks will address safety, aeronautical information management, Intra-African connectivity, airport infrastructure, biometrics and security, modern airline retailing, sustainability, and skilled workforce, it is noted.