Rwanda Leads Push for Africa’s Aviation Revolution

The two-day summit that started on Thursday brought together over 2,000 participants, including airline executives, policymakers, aviation experts, and innovators from across the continent.

Kagame highlighted the strategic role of aviation in economic growth and integration. “Air travel should not be reserved for the wealthy. By working together, African countries can open their skies and expand opportunities for trade, tourism, and innovation,” he said.

The summit emphasized technological innovation, showcasing Rwanda’s use of drones for public health and logistics. Zipline, operational in Rwanda since 2016, has delivered blood, vaccines, and medical supplies to more than 650 health facilities, including remote clinics. Its drones now travel more than 160 kilometers at speeds of 130 km/h, reducing delivery times and saving lives.

Rwanda is also piloting electric vertical take-off and landing (eVTOL) drones capable of transporting people and cargo, developed by Chinese firm EHang. Kagame described the program as a major step toward modern urban mobility and regional collaboration in aviation technology. “We are proud to introduce this innovation and look forward to working with partners across Africa to expand its benefits,” he said.

The summit highlighted the need for continental coordination, with Kagame urging support for the African Union (AU) and the Agency for Aerial Navigation Safety in Africa and Madagascar (ASECNA) to harmonize air transport policies. “Africans can achieve remarkable progress when we pool our resources, talent, and technology,” he said.

ASECNA Director-General Prosper Zo’o Minto’o emphasized investment in infrastructure and modern technology to strengthen Africa’s aviation capacity, while summit director Alan Peaford called for regional cooperation to overcome persistent challenges in air travel.

President Kagame also underlined inclusive initiatives, including visa-free travel for African citizens and programs encouraging women and youth to pursue aviation careers. He projected that by 2044, passenger traffic in Africa could more than double from today’s 180 million to over 400 million, highlighting the need for safe, efficient, and interconnected skies.

The Aviation Africa Summit and Exhibition 2025 featured more than 120 exhibitors and 90 aviation companies, focusing on innovation, infrastructure, regulation, and human capital development. Rwanda’s leadership in drone technology, eVTOL testing, and regional cooperation signals a new era for Africa’s skies, where air travel becomes a driver of growth, connectivity, and opportunity for all.