With the AfCFTA, air freight is becoming a key lever for African integration. Peter Musola (Kenya Airways) calls for reforms to fully exploit Africa's logistics potential.

Today, Africa accounts for only 2% of the global air freight market, a figure that reveals the continent's enormous room for growth. Peter Musola points out that air freight is crucial for time-sensitive sectors such as pharmaceuticals and agricultural products: “Air freight is an essential lever for connecting African markets,” he says. The emergence of the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) could accentuate this need for rapid connectivity between countries.

The development of freight begins with the modernization of African airport hubs. Musola warns: “Without efficient and competitive freight hubs, it will be difficult to support sustainable trade growth.” It also calls for the harmonization of customs policies to reduce the administrative burdens that hamper the flow of trade.

To bridge the gap, Peter Musola emphasizes the importance of technological innovation: digital platforms, online booking, and real-time tracking are all solutions that would streamline the supply chain. He also emphasizes the urgent need to train specialized local talent: “Job creation in the air cargo sector is essential to support inclusive growth.”

Finally, Musola calls for an alliance between states, airlines, and private stakeholders to build efficient and sustainable air logistics. According to him, the demand for rapid deliveries, particularly in the health and agri-food sectors, could enable intra-African trade to increase from 18% to 50% in the coming decades. “With targeted investments and the right policies, air freight can transform the future of African trade,” he concludes optimistically.