"East Africa is a region with immense potential,” says Hamza Benzina, head of general sales and services agencies (GSSA) and airline partnerships at Aero-Africa Aviation.“With infrastructure improvements, growing demand for e-commerce and perishables, and trade facilitation initiatives like AfCFTA, the region is set for more growth,” he told Freight News. “There’s a lot of potential in temperature-controlled logistics for pharmaceuticals and perishables, which are in high demand. “Industries that need quick delivery, like electronics and luxury goods, are also pushing for fast, reliable airfreight services. Aero Africa has established Nairobi as the regional hub and control tower to support the growth. “Our centralised setup, with four regional control towers controlling the network, enables us to represent several airlines in different stations under one unified standard, guaranteeing reliable solutions.”Aero Africa provides full interline cargo management solutions of non-conf licting products, giving regional African carriers access to new markets.Services include SPA rate and agreement negotiations, transit cargo management, and monitoring ground handling operations. “This model is suitable for East Africa where we offer a complete service package for airlines, covering all major stations without the need for multiple local general sales a g ent s (G S A s).“Airlines are looking for more than just sales. They want neutral partners acting as their own team who can handle capacity and yield management, marketing, route development and more,” he said.Ongoing investment in technology and facilities is also required. “Digitalisation adapted to market conditions and better communication channels are becoming ‘must haves’. “A growing need for temperature-controlled logistics and e-commerce services means that airlines need access to these facilities to tap into the opportunities.“Aero-Africa Aviation is well-equipped to meet these new demands with our innovative and reliable solutions.”Having a presence on the ground is necessary to overcome the challenges of moving freight in the region, which include infrastructure limitations, complex local regulations, and an imbalance between imports and exports. “Cross-border road connectivity poses difficulties, and political instability in certain countries can impact operations,” said Benzina.Operational challenges, which affect the cost of airfreight, include “pricey infrastructure and f light operations. “Customs regulations are tricky, with frequent system hiccups causing delays”. There is a plus. “With expanding capacity and regional integration efforts under AfCFTA and EAC, cross-border trade is set to get easier, boosting East Africa’s logistics potential.”Aero-Africa is experiencing the revival of the regional economy through its growing volumes. “This growth is driven by new routes and increased service frequencies.“The booming e-commerce sector and the demand for perishables exports are also pushing more cargo into the airfreight network. “East Africa’s growing trade with international markets, especially for perishables and electronics, is speeding up this trend.”He says the company has a long-term commitment to the region. “Aero-Africa Aviation aims to be part of East African development by navigating the regional challenges. “We will continue to help airlines improve connectivity in the region and tap into the potential it holds by providing reliable services that meet their needs. “The number of airline partnerships and opportunities shows the growing trust in our services. Together with all stakeholders, we’re unlocking Africa’s true potential in the air cargo industry,” he said. ER
