Dr. Ngirente made the remarks during the official opening of the 13th Aviation Stakeholders Convention at the Kigali Convention Centre on Monday, May 12, 2025.
Addressing aviation leaders and policymakers from across the continent, Ngirente underscored the importance of collective efforts in shaping the future of African air travel. He said initiatives such as the Single African Air Transport Market (SAATM) and the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) are vital frameworks that require improved air connectivity to deliver on their promise.
'Rwanda's ambitions do not exist in isolation, and we all know that Africa's growth is interconnected,' Ngirente stated. 'An integrated African airspace will lower costs, improve competition, and unlock economic opportunities across the continent.'
The Prime Minister praised RwandAir's role in connecting Africa to the world, describing it as one of the fastest-growing airlines on the continent, now reaching over 100 destinations through direct and codeshare routes. He noted the airline's growing popularity among young people, with nearly 2,000 applicants for its cadet pilot programme this year alone.
Ngirente reaffirmed Rwanda's commitment to investing in aviation infrastructure, including the expansion of Kigali International Airport and construction of the new Bugesera International Airport. These, he said, are more than transport projectsâ€"they are 'economic multipliers' supporting trade, tourism, and employment.
The new Bugesera International Airport, being constructed in partnership with Qatar Airways, is expected to be completed by 2028 at a cost of $2 billion.
Calling on governments and industry players alike, the Prime Minister urged the creation of stable, transparent environments to foster innovation, cross-border cooperation, and sustainable growth within the aviation sector.
'We must turn today's commitments into real progress for the millions of Africans who will benefit from a connected, competitive, and sustainable aviation sector,' he said.
The convention, organised by the African Airlines Association (AFRAA) in partnership with RwandAir, brings together stakeholders to explore strategies for innovation and sustainability under the theme 'Sustainability. Collaborate. Innovate.'
Wycliffe Nyamasege
