The Secretary-General of the African Civil Aviation Commission (AFCAC), Adefunke Adeyemi, has called for stronger investment in women and young professionals to support the sustainable growth of Africa’s aviation sector.
In a message marking the 2026 edition of International Women’s Day, Adeyemi emphasized that the transformation of the continent’s aviation industry requires deliberate policies and programmes that expand opportunities for women and youth.
Speaking on the theme “Give to Gain,” she noted that Africa’s aviation industry is entering a new phase of expansion and integration, particularly as countries advance the Single African Air Transport Market (SAATM) and pursue the long-term development vision outlined in Agenda 2063.
According to Adeyemi, these initiatives will require a stronger pool of skilled professionals and inclusive leadership capable of driving innovation and growth across the aviation ecosystem.
She explained that AFCAC is already working to address the talent gap through its African Women and Youth in Aviation Initiative, which promotes training, mentorship, scholarships, and professional visibility for women and young professionals across the aviation value chain.
The programme has already supported more than 150 beneficiaries through training and professional development opportunities, while also establishing partnerships and launching a continental digital platform aimed at tracking and strengthening Africa’s aviation talent pipeline.
As part of efforts to translate the International Women’s Day theme into concrete action, Adeyemi also announced the launch of the “Give One Thing” campaign for 2026.
The initiative encourages individuals, institutions, and industry leaders across the continent to commit to at least one measurable action within the year that supports the advancement of women and youth in aviation.
She explained that actions such as offering training opportunities, mentorship programmes, leadership sponsorship, and inclusion in decision-making processes would help strengthen institutional capacity and promote balanced governance across the sector.
Adeyemi further stressed that greater inclusion is vital as Africa’s aviation market is projected to be among the fastest growing globally in the coming decades.
According to her, deliberate investment in people will ensure the industry develops the resilience, expertise, and leadership continuity needed to sustain long-term growth.
“The future of African aviation depends on our collective commitment,” she said, adding that when stakeholders give intentionally, the sector gains stronger capacity, broader participation, and sustainable development.
Written by Nosa Aituamen