The Common Market for Eastern and Southern Africa (COMESA) has underscored the need for the regional body to invest heavily in the aviation industry in a bid to accelerate economic development in the region and beyond.
COMESA Infrastructure and Logistics Division Director, Bernard Dzawanda, has since commended the European Union (EU), for the provision of funds to the tune of eight (8million) Euros for the project.
Speaking during the steering committee for support to air transport sector development in Eastern, Southern Africa and Indian Ocean region, Dr Dzawanda stressed the importance of streamlining the Aviation sector to bolster intra-trade in the region.
He explained that COMESA and the EU, signed an agreement in 2021, to cater for the five regional economic communities which include SADC, COMESA and the Indian Ocean region among others.
Dr Dzawanda added that COMESA is the contracting authority and a lead in the project implementation.
He said once the project is fully implemented, it will open up access to many destinations across Africa, which will in turn spur economic growth among member states.
ZANIS reports that COMESA Assistant Secretary General for Programmes, Mohamed Kadah, in his virtual statement, said the successful implementation of the project will promote trade in COMESA member states and beyond.
And EU delegation head of infrastructure section, Massimo Bonannini observed that improving the aviation industry has the huge potential to foster social and economic growth.
He stressed that the aviation sector is critical in accelerating economic development, and that the African Continent will benefit tremendously once completed.
Mr Bonannini, however, bemoaned the slow pace at which the project is being implemented since its inception in 2021.
He stated that the low budget absorption has delayed the speedy completion of the project.
He noted that the EU, which is the funder of the infrastructure project, is considering extending the completion duration by two years so that quality works can be delivered.
He expressed optimism that the project is expected to improve air connectivity and reduce operational costs and lower fares, thereby making the sector more efficient and resilient.
