NAIROBI, March 18 (Xinhua) -- Aviation experts convened in the Kenyan capital of Nairobi on Tuesday for a two-day conference to accelerate the adoption of next-generation air transport solutions across the continent.
The Africa Advanced Air Mobility (AAM) Symposium brought together more than 100 participants including officials from the United Nations, governments, aviation regulators and airlines to enhance the use of drones and electric vertical takeoff and landing vehicles.
Mohamed Daghar, principal secretary in Kenya's Ministry of Roads and Transport, said that the continent's rapid urbanization, expanding economies and increasing demand for efficient logistics necessitate a shift in the approach to mobility.
"The AAM presents an unprecedented opportunity to address these challenges by introducing sustainable technology-driven aviation solutions that enhance connectivity, spur economic growth, and promote environmental sustainability," said Daghar.
He added that Kenya is committed to positioning itself as a hub for emerging air mobility technologies across key sectors, including healthcare, agriculture, logistics and tourism.
Justus Nyunja, regional officer for aviation security for the Eastern and Southern African region at the United Nations' International Civil Aviation Organization, urged African countries to harmonize their advanced air mobility regulations with global best practices through collaboration with regional and global aviation bodies.
He also called for public awareness campaigns in order to enhance understanding and acceptance of advanced air technologies.
Abderahmane Berthe, secretary general of the African Airlines Association, noted that Africa's air transport industry has long faced infrastructure and connectivity challenges as traditional aviation networks remain limited.
Berthe revealed that advanced air mobility presents a game-changing opportunity to bridge the connectivity gap, particularly in remote and underserved regions.
Godwin Balang, director of aerodrome and airspace standards at the Nigeria Civil Aviation Authority, said that for advanced air mobility to take off in Africa, governments, regulators, airlines, and technology providers must work together to establish a robust ecosystem that ensures safety, efficiency, and economic viability.
