Aviation stakeholders in Eastern Africa have agreed on a roadmap to implement a Multilateral Air Service Agreement (MASA) and advance regional air transport liberalisation, reports the UN Economic Commission for Africa.

The four-day Expert Policy Dialogue in Arusha, Tanzania, brought together officials from the UN Economic Commission for Africa, African Union Commission, African Civil Aviation Commission, East African Community and African Airlines Association. The meeting aimed to accelerate adoption of the Yamoussoukro Decision and the Single African Air Transport Market (SAATM).

Robert Lisinge of ECA said improved connectivity and lower costs are essential for regional value chains, tourism, pharmaceuticals and e-commerce. He stressed the importance of harmonising policies to remove non-physical barriers to air transport.

The African Union Commission said efficient air transport is indispensable to the success of the African Continental Free Trade Area. Eng. Eric Ntagengerwa noted that SAATM is a critical enabler of trade and integration, and praised East Africa's leadership in harmonising regulations and modernising infrastructure.

Mr Stephen Musa of AFCAC said the most crucial deliverable was the roadmap from bilateral to multilateral agreements, including legal review, draft text, consultations, ministerial approval and monitoring. He highlighted quick wins such as priority routes, cargo corridors and fifth freedom opportunities.

Gilbert Kibe, AFCAC SAATM Ambassador for Eastern Region, said the dialogue produced a draft MASA covering passenger, cargo and mail services, and a framework for harmonised aviation taxes and charges. He called it the most impactful initiative yet in advancing liberalisation in East Africa.

Ambassador Patrick Mbundi of the East African Secretariat reaffirmed commitment to liberalising the regional air transport market, stressing that affordable and competitive aviation is vital for trade, tourism and investment. He urged harmonisation of charges and full implementation of MASA to boost connectivity and job creation.

Key outcomes included a validated draft MASA framework aligned with the Yamoussoukro Decision, a roadmap for adoption by EAC countries, frameworks to liberalise air cargo markets and reduce aviation taxes, and a plan for a common tax regime in East Africa.

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