TECH & INNOVATION
AU commits to $30 billion investment in modernizing Africa’s aviation infrastructure
The African Union (AU) has announced an ambitious $30 billion investment plan to overhaul and modernize aviation infrastructure across Africa — a move set to transform the continent’s air transport sector and drive economic integration under the Single African Air Transport Market (SAATM) initiative.
Staff Writer 
Luanda, Angola — October 30 (Running Africa) The plan was unveiled by H.E. Lerato D. Mataboge, the AU’s Commissioner for Infrastructure and Energy, during a high-level session in Luanda, Angola, themed “Financing and Modernizing African Civil Aviation Infrastructure to Promote Integrated Continental Airspace and Enable Free Movement Under SAATM.”
Distinguished panelists from Zimbabwe, Rwanda, Morocco, and Ethiopia joined the discussions, exploring strategies to close Africa’s critical aviation infrastructure gap — estimated at $30 billion over the next decade — as passenger traffic is projected to surge to nearly 500 million by 2050.
African Union heads of state and government gather for a family photo at the AU headquarters in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, during a high-level summit focused on continental integration and development - Image: accord.org.za
According to the AU, the modernization strategy will focus on integrating advanced technology, creating a seamless continental airspace, and incorporating renewable energy solutions across African airports. The financing model includes mobilizing public funds to unlock an additional $20 billion in private and institutional investment.
“Aviation is not merely a mode of transport; it is a strategic engine of continental integration and a core enabler of Agenda 2063 and the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA),” said Commissioner Mataboge.
She reaffirmed the AU’s commitment to aligning all aviation projects with global green standards, emphasizing reduced fuel consumption and lower CO₂ emissions. The initiative also aims to position African aviation as an attractive asset class for climate-conscious investors worldwide.
With the AU’s renewed focus on connectivity, sustainability, and investment, Africa’s skies may soon become a vital corridor for trade, tourism, and economic transformation.
