Lomé to host pivotal African aviation summit in 2026

The capital of Togo is set to become the epicenter of African aviation progress from June 15 to 19, 2026, as it hosts the African Air Transport Convention and Exhibition. This landmark event will bring together industry leaders to shape the future trajectory of aviation across the continent.

African leaders unite for a transformative air transport agenda

The high-profile gathering is being organized in collaboration with the African Union Commission and enjoys the patronage of Faure Essozimna Gnassingbé, President of the Togolese Republic. The summit’s agenda is centered on accelerating the implementation of the Single African Air Transport Market (SAATM) while fostering deeper integration within the aviation sector.

Over 500 delegates are expected in Lomé, comprising government officials, aviation regulators, airline executives, airport managers, investors, development agencies, and international partners. Among the notable attendees are Lerato Dorothy Mataboge, African Union Commissioner for Infrastructure and Energy; Wamkele Mene, Secretary-General of the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA); and Nardos Bekele-Thomas, CEO of the African Union Development Agency-NEPAD.

Global aviation stakeholders converge for strategic discussions

The event will also welcome representatives from leading international aviation bodies, including the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO), Airports Council International Africa (ACI Africa), and the International Air Transport Association (IATA). Togolese government officials and the African Civil Aviation Commission (AFCAC) will play key roles in the proceedings.

The five-day program is structured around critical themes: advancing air market integration, expanding air freight corridors, mobilizing investments for infrastructure, embracing technological innovation, and strengthening strategic partnerships across the sector.

Key focus areas for Africa’s aviation future

Discussions will prioritize enhancing intra-African connectivity, reducing air travel costs, securing infrastructure financing, and accelerating digital transformation within the industry. A major emphasis will be placed on promoting sustainable aviation fuels, aligning with the objectives outlined in the African Union’s Agenda 2063 and the AfCFTA’s broader economic integration goals.

Anticipated outcomes and policy commitments

Organizers anticipate tangible outcomes from the summit, including the adoption of the Lomé Ministerial Declaration, the launch of the African Air Route Development Platform (ARDP), and the establishment of new cooperation and investment mechanisms. These initiatives aim to cultivate a more competitive and cohesive African air transport market.