By Baboloki Semele: Africa has taken flight on the global stage literally. At the 42nd International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) Assembly, the continent pulled off a spectacular clean sweep, securing all eight of its nominated candidates onto the powerful 36-member ICAO Council. From Angola to Uganda, Africa’s aviation champions, also including Egypt, Equatorial Guinea, Mali, Morocco, Nigeria, and South Africa are now firmly seated at the table that decides the future of global aviation. This haul amounts to almost one-fourth of the Council, a feat that not only cements Africa’s growing influence but also sends a strong signal: the world is betting on Africa’s leadership in aviation. The mood across the continent is jubilant. This victory is not just about numbers but about recognition, trust and Africa moving from the passenger seat to the cockpit in shaping global aviation.
“This is a proud moment for Africa,” declared H.E. Commissioner Lerato D. Mataboge, the AU Commissioner for Infrastructure and Energy. “It reflects the trust of the global community in Africa’s expertise and contributions. Our representatives will not only safeguard Africa’s aviation interests but will continue shaping the global aviation system in ways that promote fairness, inclusivity, and sustainability.”
Her words echoed the spirit of unity and determination that carried Africa to this win. Similarly, Mr. Florent Serge Dzota, President of AFCAC, described the outcome as “a milestone for Africa’s civil aviation community” proof that Africa’s voice is no longer just being heard but being respected.
But Africa did not just show up to win the vote as the continent delegates descended in Montreal, Canada armed with ideas, solutions, and a powerful technical agenda. The continent submitted 16 technical and information papers that sparked crucial conversations in the Assembly’s commissions.
Among the standout proposals were:
Safety First; using drones for affordable checks of navigation systems, and pushing for a global tool to monitor obstacles near airports.
Security and Facilitation; streamlining aviation security under the Global Aviation Security Plan (GASeP) and calling for regulations to allow drones to deliver dangerous goods like vaccines during emergencies.
Environment; backing CORSIA as the only global scheme to curb aviation emissions, while warning against regional measures that could penalize developing countries.
This was Africa speaking with one voice coordinated daily by the AU, AFCAC, and the AFI Group. And the world listened. The victory comes at a perfect moment. Africa is in the fast lane of aviation growth, with the Single African Air Transport Market (SAATM) set to transform how the continent connects. Covering over 90% of intra-African traffic, SAATM promises cheaper flights, easier connections, and stronger economic integration. By locking down nearly a quarter of ICAO Council seats, Africa now has the power to ensure this flagship Agenda 2063 initiative takes off and stays airborne while championing safety, sustainability, and inclusivity on the global stage. The African Union says this is not just another election win but a strategic leap forward with the platform and mandate to influence key decisions. This according to the African Union positions Africa to help steer global aviation toward the ambitious Net Zero by 2050 target, while ensuring no region or community is left behind. The African Union expressed gratitude to the States that carried Africa’s flag during the 2022–2025 triennium, reaffirming its commitment to building an aviation sector that thrives at home and commands respect abroad. Commissioner Mataboge reaffirmed that Africa’s mandate at ICAO is not just about representation but a declaration of ambition and proof that when Africa unites, Africa wins adding that the continent has shown the world it is ready to lead, innovate, and integrate.