Cairo: The Egyptian Civil Aviation Authority actively participated in the African Air Transport Convention and Expo 2026 held in Lom©, Togo. This event saw the convergence of transport ministers and international aviation officials, marking a significant step in the continent's aviation development efforts.
According to State Information Service Egypt, the participation of the Egyptian delegation aligns with the Ministry of Civil Aviation's strategy to expand cooperation and enhance air connectivity across Africa. The convention, inaugurated by President Faure Gnassingb© of Togo and the President of Rwanda, focused on joint efforts to develop air transport as a means to boost continental economic integration.
Leading the Egyptian delegation was Navigator Sameh Fawzy, head of the Egyptian Civil Aviation Authority, accompanied by Pilot Karim Gamil, the director of international agreements. They attended various ministerial sessions and engaged in bilateral meetings alongside the Egyptian Ambassador to Togo, Ahmed Mohamed Eid.
The convention's sessions emphasized the importance of accelerating the Single African Air Transport Market (SAATM), reducing operational costs, and supporting infrastructure investments to enhance regional trade and tourism. Fawzy participated in a panel discussion on aviation infrastructure investment, where he highlighted strategic financing as a key component for sustainable development in the aviation sector.
Fawzy stated that their involvement in the convention followed directives from Minister of Civil Aviation Sameh El-Hefny to strengthen Egypt's role as a regional hub. He also mentioned that the development of Egyptian airports is being integrated with transport networks, logistics, modern navigation, and environmental sustainability. He noted that several Egyptian airports have received international green awards, showcasing Egypt's commitment to adhering to international best practices.
The Egyptian delegation engaged in talks with participating officials to foster aviation cooperation, increase air connectivity, and exchange technical expertise. The discussions also focused on maximizing regional growth opportunities, further reinforcing Egypt's position as a primary African aviation hub.
The delegation concluded their participation by reaffirming the ministry's commitment to coordinating with African nations to create a more integrated, efficient, and sustainable transport sector.