As
part of efforts to improve the air transport infrastructure in Africa
the African Export Import Bank (Afreximbank) and the Russian Export
Center (REC), recently embarked on a series roadshow to raise the
profile of cutting-edge Russian aircraft and helicopters in Africa.
The five-day roadshow, which took place
in Nairobi, Kenya, through Kampala, Lagos, Abuja and Bamako, was
intended to address limitations around the aviation sector, which is
viewed as critical to achieving the continent’s trade, growth and
development objectives.
The partnership was also aimed at reducing by 10 per cent, the cost of transportation which would increase trade by 25 per cent.
Speaking at the roadshow in Lagos,
Head, Client Relations, Afreximbank, Mr. Rene Awabeng, said the
partnership gives key players in Africa’s aviation industry tremendous
opportunities.
He said the 17-year average fleet age of
African airlines was the oldest of any world region, stressing that by
showcasing state-of-the-art and more fuel-efficient aircraft and the
newest helicopters, with their expertise and experience in aircraft
finance, they can enable the upgrading of Africa’s aviation industry.
“This upgrade is a key element in boosting economies and many industry sectors,” he said.
Awabeng added: “We look forward to
conversations with authorities and the aviation industry to discuss how
their development plans and identify areas where they require funding
and technical assistance.”
Also speaking, the Managing Director,
International Development, Russian Export Center, Anna Belyaeva, stated
that African governments were generally aware of the need to develop
their aviation infrastructure, noting that the center welcomed the
opportunity to discuss how they could help domestic and international
airlines meet the challenges and opportunities facing them.
She added: “We have experts from airkine
manufacturers and trade financiers at the roadshow and will be able to
provide specialist advice and guidance on all aspects of aviation.
“REC offers a wide range of support
tools for Russian exporters and already has success stories of
supporting export of civil aircrafts and helicopters. We see a
considerable potential for Russian aviation industry products in Africa
and are ready together with Russian exporters and Afreximbank on this
market.”
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