As the population in Africa is rapidly rising, the demand for services is also increasing, unlocking investment opportunities on the continent. One sector that is emerging as a key investment offering is the aviation industry, with the demand for air travel expected to soar. However, Africa is currently facing a significant shortfall in aviation professionals. CNBC Africa recently interviewed Romy Hawatt, the Founder and Chairman of Airways Aviation, to delve deeper into the investment potential and challenges within Africa’s aviation industry. Airways Aviation has been eyeing the African market for some time and is strategizing its entry into the continent. Hawatt highlighted the importance of finding the right strategic partners across various African territories as a critical consideration for their expansion. He mentioned attending key conferences and summits, such as the Air Force conference in Dakar, Senegal, and the Africa conference in December, as part of their preparation for entering the African market. One of the significant challenges in Africa’s aviation industry is the infancy of the sector. While countries like Ethiopia, Morocco, Egypt, and South Africa have made strides in developing their aviation sectors, there are new players entering the scene aggressively with varying strategic plans. Hawatt emphasized the necessity of the aviation sector for the growth and future development of Africa as a whole. Government policies play a crucial role in unlocking the potential of the aviation business in Africa. Aligning government policies with strategic objectives is essential to foster cooperation among nations and regions. Creating an investment-friendly environment that attracts foreign investors and multinational corporations is key to driving growth in the aviation sector. Education and training are paramount in developing the aviation industry in Africa. Hawatt stressed that educating the youth and showcasing the career opportunities available in the aviation sector are crucial for its growth. Airways Aviation positions itself as a global leader in aviation education, with bases in 10 countries. By focusing on education and training, they aim to address the need for skilled aviation professionals in different parts of the world. Ultimately, collaboration between governments, visionaries, and the private sector is necessary to drive the growth of the aviation industry in Africa.
