Aviation Experts from 19 countries representing five African Regional Economic Communities (RECs) met in Djibouti from 2 – 4 September and validated the Draft Model Bilateral Air Services Agreement (BASA) – a key instrument that will accelerate the full implementation of the Yamoussoukro Decision and, in turn, the operationalization of the Single African Air Transport Market (SAATM).

With support from the European Union, SAATM is being implemented in the Common Market for Eastern and Southern Africa (COMESA), the East African Community (EAC), the Intergovernmental Authority for Development (IGAD), the Indian Ocean Community (IOC) and the Southern African Development Community (SADC).

The RECs believe that the model BASA will serve as a powerful tool to fast-track the implementation of Yamoussoukro Decision and the SAATM programme, breaking down barriers and fostering a seamless air travel environment. 

The meeting noted that the story of African aviation and air transport is a narrative of resilience which over decades, has faced and overcome profound challenges, from global financial crises to pandemics. Each time, it has not only survived but has rebounded with renewed vigor, demonstrating its fundamental role in economic prosperity and development. 

Speaking during the opening of the workshop, COMESA reiterated its commitment to ensure that Member States are provided with the necessary support to develop and implement the model BASA document.

“Today, as we look to a future where passenger traffic is projected to double by 2040, we must ensure that this growth is inclusive and benefits all of our citizens,’ said Dr Zacharia Kingori, Senior Transport Economist at COMESA Secretariat.

Speaking at the same event, the Director General of the Djibouti Civil Aviation Authority, Mr Daoud Ali Abdou added that by developing a model BASA, the RECS are creating a template for a more integrated, prosperous and connected Africa. 

He urged the delegates to focus and develop a refined document, which will be robust, fair and effective once implemented. 

“We are here to develop a document that will directly impact the lives of millions of Africans, facilitating trade, tourism and social connections,”’ he added.

Speaking on behalf of the Intergovernmental Authority for Development (IGAD) Mr Ismail Garo Head of Trade, Industry and Tourism has a good platform for institutional synergy needed—between COMESA, IGAD, the African Union, and all stakeholders—to ensure all frameworks in air transport are not fragmented, but rather mutually reinforcing.

“’Let us engage today’s discussion with clarity, collaboration, and shared purpose. Because when we open the skies, we open opportunities -for trade, for tourism, for jobs, and most importantly for our people,” he added.

Signed in 1999, the Yamoussoukro Decision, was a landmark achievement which promised a liberalized air transport sector for Africa. However, its full potential has been hampered by a lack of consistent implementation, particularly regarding the granting of unrestricted traffic rights. The absence of a standardized, harmonized model BASA has led to a patchwork of bilateral agreements, making progress slow and inefficient.