By Eva Richardson – The Logistic News
February 27, 2025 – The 7th edition of Air Cargo Africa and the inaugural Transport Logistic Africa concluded in Nairobi, Kenya, with record-breaking attendance, further cementing Africa’s role as a key player in global logistics and trade. The event, held at The Sarit Expo Centre, brought together over 4,100 attendees from 50+ countries, featured 150 global brands, and hosted 450 industry delegates, making it the most successful edition to date.
Kenya’s Role in Global Trade Expansion
With Nairobi emerging as a major aviation hub and Mombasa playing a critical role in maritime logistics, Kenya was at the center of discussions about Africa’s logistics future. Industry leaders and policymakers highlighted the importance of integrating air, maritime, rail, and road transport to enhance Africa’s trade efficiency and global connectivity.
Hon. Caleb Kositany, Chairman of the Kenya Airports Authority, emphasized the event’s significance:
“This is more than a networking event; it is a platform for action, driving solutions that will redefine Africa’s logistics sector. Integrating multiple transport modes is the key to unlocking Africa’s trade potential.”
Diverse Participation and Global Engagement
This year’s event saw extensive participation from leading global and regional logistics players:
- Airlines and Cargo Carriers: Kenya Airways, South African Airways, Ethiopian Airlines, Emirates SkyCargo, Qatar Airways Cargo, Turkish Airlines Cargo, and Etihad Cargo.
- Logistics and Freight Forwarders: AGL, EFL, Suhara Logistics, and Mitchell COTTS Freight Group.
- Ground Handling and Infrastructure Providers: Menzies Aviation, Swissport, Lufthansa Cargo, and Boeing showcased their expanding footprints in Africa.
- Asia-Africa Trade Connectivity: Leading Asian logistics firms, including We Fly and HACTL, underlined Africa’s increasing importance in global trade networks.
Allan Kilavuka, CEO of Kenya Airways, noted:
“Africa’s logistics industry is undergoing a transformation. This event highlights the urgent need for infrastructure modernization, digitalization, and investment in supply chain resilience.”
Innovation and Policy Support Drive Industry Growth
A major focus of the conference was on technology adoption and regulatory frameworks that will support Africa’s logistics transformation.
Emile N. Arao, Director General of the Kenya Civil Aviation Authority (KCAA), highlighted Kenya’s commitment to innovation:
“Regulation must be an enabler of progress. Embracing digital transformation, AI-driven logistics, and sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) will position Africa as a leader in global cargo transport.”
Looking Ahead: The Future of African Logistics
Building on this momentum, Messe München announced that Air Cargo Africa & Transport Logistic Africa will return in 2027, promising an even larger platform for industry stakeholders to foster trade, innovation, and collaboration.
As Africa continues to develop its logistics and transportation networks, this event serves as a catalyst for growth, investment, and modernization in the sector.
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