President Paul Kagame has arrived in Lomé, Togo, where he is attending the African Air Transport Convention and Expo (AATCE), a continental forum focused on strengthening Africa’s aviation sector and improving air connectivity across the continent.
Kagame arrived on June 15 and was received by Togolese President Faure Essozimna Gnassingbé, according to the Office of the President.
The high-level summit, running from June 15 to 19, brings together heads of state, airline executives, aviation regulators, investors and development partners to discuss strategies for advancing air transport as a key driver of economic growth, trade and regional integration in Africa.
President Kagame is expected to deliver remarks to the conference and engage in bilateral discussions with President Gnassingbé on the sidelines of the event.
Key discussions at the convention include accelerating the implementation of the Single African Air Transport Market (SAATM), reducing regulatory and operational barriers to intra-African air travel, and mobilizing investment in aviation infrastructure.
Delegates are also expected to explore ways of strengthening cooperation among African airlines and leveraging the aviation sector to boost tourism, trade and continental connectivity.
Rwanda’s participation comes as the country continues to position itself as a regional aviation hub through investments in RwandAir and large-scale infrastructure development, including the construction of Bugesera International Airport.
Over the years, Rwanda has been among the leading advocates for improved air connectivity in Africa, arguing that efficient air transport is essential to unlocking the continent’s economic potential.
The 2025 edition of the same conference was hosted in Kigali, underscoring Rwanda’s growing influence in continental aviation policy discussions.
