By Roland Ohaeri
Mr. Salvatore Sciacchitano, President of the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) Council, was received by the Transitional President of Gabon, General Brice Clotaire Oligui Nguema, at the Presidential Palace on 17 July 2024. According to ICAO, the two leaders engaged in high-level bilateral talks which centered on the sustainable development of the aviation sector in Gabon and across the African continent.
A key focus of the discussions were the Single African Air Transport Market (SAATM) initiative and the broader opportunities presented to enhance overall air connectivity in Africa. Mr. Sciacchitano expressed his appreciation for the policies adopted by Gabon’s transitional authorities to support the growth of the aviation sector in the country.
The ICAO Council President pledged support for Gabon through the implementation of high-technology capacity-building mechanisms for aviation professionals. Additionally, he offered assistance in needs analysis and the development of a master plan for the construction of Libreville’s new airport.
This meeting follows the recently concluded 9th edition of the Africa and Indian Ocean Aviation Week (AFIWEEK 2024) held in Libreville, which was attended by the Vice-President of Gabon. The high-level engagement underscores the Gabon’s commitment to advancing the country’s aviation sector, ICAO stated.
Mr. Sciacchitano’s visit highlights the importance of international cooperation in developing Africa’s aviation infrastructure and implementing initiatives like SAATM, which aims to create a single unified air transport market in Africa, boost the continent’s economic integration and growth.
As African nations work towards enhancing their air connectivity, such discussions between ICAO leadership and national authorities are crucial for aligning global aviation standards with local development goals, ICAO said.
