The minister made these remarks at the 56th General Assembly of the African Airlines Association (AFRAA) opening ceremony, held at the National Museum of Egyptian Civilization in Cairo.
The event kicked off on Sunday and runs through Tuesday.
During the event, Elhefny emphasized the aviation sector’s pivotal role as a lifeline connecting African countries and driving economic growth, trade, and cultural exchange.
He also highlighted Egypt’s dedication to enhancing regional cooperation and its crucial position in the Middle East and African civil aviation.
The assembly, represented by EgyptAir under the Ministry of Civil Aviation, brought together over 500 aviation leaders to discuss advancing Africa’s aviation sector through better infrastructure, airport networks, and connectivity.
Moreover, Elhefny called for unified efforts, coordinated policies, and the adoption of advanced technologies to foster regional integration and support Africa’s sustainable development goals.
During the ceremony, Secretary General of AFRAA Abderahmane Berthé presented the Award of the Year to Minister Elhefny and Angola’s deputy minister of transport for their exceptional contributions to African aviation, recognizing their leadership and commitment to the sector’s progress.
Abderahmane Berthé presents the 'Award of the Year' during AFRAA's
Egypt is hosting this event for the third time since AFRAA’s establishment, which reflects its leadership in the sector.
The first time EgyptAir hosted AFRAA’s General Assembly was in 1969, and then in 2006.
Chairpersons and CEOs from African airlines, ICAO, IATA, AFCAC, civil aviation authorities, airport companies, air navigation services providers, aircraft and engine manufacturers, component suppliers, and many other service providers are attending the AFRAA, Africa's biggest aviation summit.
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