Kenya Airways Chief Executive Officer (CEO) Allan Kilavuka has been appointed the new chairperson of the Africa Airline Association (AFRAA).
Kilavuka assumed the role at the 56th Annual General Assembly and Summit in Cairo, Egypt, marking a milestone for both Kenya Airways and Africa’s aviation industry.
As the new AFRAA Chairperson, Kilavuka will lead the association for a one-year term, with the possibility of renewal. Kivaluka’s appointment will elevate him to a position to make developments that will shape the future of Africa’s aviation industry.
In this role, he will be responsible for guiding AFRAA’s strategic direction, representing the interests of its member airlines, and advocating for policies that promote the growth, sustainability, and global competitiveness of Africa’s aviation industry.
In his acceptance speech, Kilavuka expressed his gratitude at being handed the new role. “It is a privilege to be entrusted with the role of AFRAA chairperson. I am deeply appreciative of this opportunity and look forward to working for AFRAA,” he remarked.
At the same time, he expressed his commitment to working towards achieving the goals of AFRAA, building partnerships in the African aviation industry, and propelling Africa into the global aviation space.
“I commit to working alongside industry peers to amplify Africa’s voice in global aviation, build on greater collaboration, and drive strategic initiatives to enable Africa’s airlines to navigate current challenges and seize new opportunities. Together, we can advance Africa’s aviation industry to benefit all stakeholders and the communities we serve,” he reiterated.
Kilavuka succeeds João Carlos Pó Jorge, the outgoing Chairperson and CEO of LAM Mozambique, who has led AFRAA over the past two years. Under Mr Jorge’s stewardship, AFRAA has made substantial strides in addressing challenges posed by the post-pandemic recovery period, pushing for strategic collaborations, and driving sustainability efforts.
Kilavuka is expected to continue building upon the progress achieved during Mr Jorge’s tenure, ensuring a smooth transition and a promising future for AFRAA.
Founded in 1968, AFFRA comprises over 40 airlines, including leading carriers from across the continent, representing more than 85 per cent of African air transport. AFRAA’s mission is to nurture industry cooperation, facilitate the growth of African airlines, and ensure the sustainable development of the continent’s air transport sector.
Also, during the general assembly, Kenya Airways was honored with The Airline of the Year Award - Best Improved Profitability. This prestigious award recognized the airline’s outstanding performance in 2023.
KQ’s operating profit for the year ending December 31, 2023, was Ksh10.5 billion, a 287 per cent increase from the previous year. This was the first full-year operating profit that the airline had registered since 2017.
