COVID-19: How can Africa’s transport recover from the pandemic?

The African airline industry is facing a significant challenge as it attempts to recover from the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic. According to the latest data from the African Airlines Association, passenger traffic in 2021 was just 42.3% compared to 2019 numbers, indicating that airlines are still operating below pre-pandemic levels. In an interview with CNBC Africa, Raphael Kuuchi, the Director for Government, Legal and Industry Affairs at AFRAA, discussed the factors affecting the industry's recovery and what needs to be done to facilitate a rebound. Kuuchi highlighted that the decline in air transport numbers in Africa is primarily due to the repercussions of the pandemic. The industry globally experienced a downfall as a result of the pandemic, and African airlines have been struggling to recover ever since. He emphasized the importance of addressing the impact of COVID-19 mutations and the need for consistent and coordinated measures to combat the virus effectively. One of the key factors affecting the industry's recovery is the emergence of new COVID-19 variants, such as the Omicron variant. Kuuchi noted that these variants have instigated panicky reactions and inconsistent responses from governments, leading to a decline in passenger numbers. He highlighted the significance of restoring passenger confidence through measures implemented by industry organizations like IKEU and IATA to boost travel numbers. The impact of COVID-19 restrictions and measures on the airline sector has been substantial. Countries worldwide have implemented stringent protocols, contributing to a reduction in air travel demand. Kuuchi stressed the need for governments to collaborate and communicate effectively to ensure a coordinated approach to handling future virus variants, which would enable passengers and airlines to navigate travel requirements efficiently. In terms of financial challenges, Kuuchi pointed out that African airlines have not received adequate support compared to global counterparts. While airlines globally benefited from significant relief funds during the pandemic, African airlines received a minimal amount, leading to financial strain. He called on African governments to provide more support to the aviation sector to prevent further losses and facilitate recovery. The discussion also touched upon the issue of high airport charges and taxes in Africa, which act as impediments to air travel. Kuuchi emphasized the need for governments to reconsider these charges to support airlines' sustainability. Additionally, he suggested that using PCR tests rather than vaccine passports for international travel would be more feasible in regions with low vaccination rates, such as Africa. In light of the struggles faced by African airlines, Kuuchi acknowledged that a combination of financial support, efficient management, and capitalization is crucial for the industry's viability. Many African airlines were already facing challenges pre-pandemic due to inadequate capitalization and weak management, exacerbating their difficulties during the crisis. Overall, the road to recovery for the African airline industry remains challenging, with the sector grappling with uncertain travel demand, financial constraints, and operational hurdles. Collaboration between governments, industry stakeholders, and airlines will be essential in navigating the post-pandemic landscape and revitalizing the air transport sector in Africa.