The SADC Business Council Tourism Alliance and AviaDev Africa have joined forces to host a workshop focused on improving air travel connections across the Southern African Development Community (SADC) region. The workshop will take place during the upcoming AviaDev conference in Windhoek, Namibia from June 19th to 21st
Air Transport: A Cornerstone for Regional Development
Natalia Rosa, project lead at the SADC Business Council Tourism Alliance, emphasizes the critical role of air travel in the region’s growth. “Efficient transportation systems, including air transport, are essential not only for tourism but also for overall economic development and improving the quality of life for SADC citizens,” she says.
Industry Experts to Lead Discussions
The workshop will feature a lineup of prominent figures in the aviation and tourism industries. Participants will have the opportunity to learn from specialists like Gavin Eccles (consultancy and academic aviation insights), Sylvain Bosc (former Chief Commercial Officer at SAA and Fastjet), Tim Harris (Consulum – economic strategies), Kojo Bentum-Williams (VoyagesAfriq – African tourism media), and Jillian Blackbeard (CEO, Africa’s Eden Tourism Association – regional tourism collaboration).
Collaboration is Key to Sustainable Routes
The workshop will delve into the complexities of establishing new air routes, explore effective marketing strategies, and emphasize the importance of collaboration between airlines, National Tourism Organizations (NTOs), and private sector entities. The aim is to equip participants with practical knowledge and encourage innovative solutions to overcome common industry challenges.
SADC Business Council Tourism Alliance: Championing Reform
Established in November 2023, the SADC Business Council Tourism Alliance advocates for reforms like the adoption of the Single African Air Transport Market (SAATM) and the harmonization of aviation regulations. These reforms aim to reduce travel costs, expand accessibility, and ultimately boost both business and leisure travel within the SADC region.
Fostering Collaboration for Growth
Jon Howell, CEO and founder of AviaDev Africa, expressed his excitement about the partnership: “We are thrilled to collaborate with the SADC Business Council Tourism Alliance on this crucial initiative. By bringing together key players, we aim to foster a collaborative approach to route development, creating a smoother and more accessible travel experience for visitors to Southern Africa.”
The workshop is open to NTOs, private sector tourism associations, and other stakeholders attending AviaDev who are committed to leveraging air connectivity for regional tourism growth. Participants will have the opportunity to network with aviation industry leaders and gain valuable insights to drive sustainable growth within their respective sectors.