Africa is fast emerging as a significant player in the global airfreight industry. With vast untapped markets, expanding infrastructure, and increasing cargo volumes, the continent is garnering attention from international stakeholders keen to capitalise on its potential. While challenges remain, Africa’s airfreight sector is showing impressive growth, driven by key regions such as South Africa, Kenya, and Nigeria. These developments are reshaping the continent’s role in global trade, positioning Africa as a vital hub in the logistics chain.
“Africa is a largely untapped market with enormous potential for cargo volumes, particularly in perishables and general cargo,” Gakwaya Bosco, Director of Cargo Services at RwandAir, explained. “We are seeing increased interest from foreign investors who are keen to enhance local production and tap into Africa’s vast resources.”
High-potential regions
When considering exports and imports, South Africa, Kenya, and Nigeria stand out as dominant forces in the African airfreight market. These countries have become key gateways for goods moving to and from major global markets such as the UAE, Europe, the UK, India, and China. “South Africa, Kenya, and Nigeria have consistently shown strong performance, serving as crucial nodes in the global supply chain,” Bosco remarked.
“The development of these regions is being powered by significant investments in infrastructure, which is crucial for facilitating the movement of goods.
“The agri-business sector has been a significant contributor to Africa’s success in the airfreight market.
“We are witnessing substantial developments in this area, attracting foreign investors and enhancing local production.
“Improvement in airport facilities and the increase in cargo freighter fleets are crucial in meeting the growing demand for airfreight services in Africa.”
Middle East offering
An exciting development in Africa’s airfreight market is the launch of new services by RwandAir Cargo from Kigali to Dubai and Djibouti.
“Djibouti and the Middle East serve as entry points to far Asia markets for Rwanda and the rest of the continent,” Bosco explained.
“These regions also depend on imported agricultural produce from Rwanda and other African countries.”
“We are looking at huge investments in airport infrastructure to match the increasing demand for services,” Bosco said.
“Supporting and investing in airlines to increase uplift capacity and network development across the region will be crucial.” Stronger than others Africa’s airfreight industry has outperformed comparable markets globally, thanks to several key factors. The continent has seen significant investments in agricultural business, which have not only boosted local production but also attracted foreign investors. Infrastructural developments in both uplift capacity (airlines) and handling capacity (airport facilities) have been pivotal in supporting this growth.
“Adherence to international standards by airports and airlines has been instrumental in building a strong, connected network in Africa,” he said. “Increased partnerships with both regional and foreign carriers, along with strong associations for African carriers such as AFRAA, SAATM, and AFCFTA, have been key to building this network. “Harmonised operating procedures and integrated associations have set a trajectory for all members, smoothing out requirements and standards.”
