Raphael Oni
The Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) Commission has sounded the alarm on the excessively high air transport fares within the West African sub-region, which remain the highest globally. According to Mr. Sédiko Douka, ECOWAS Commissioner for Infrastructure, Energy and Digitalization, the situation has become a significant barrier to regional integration.
The Alarming Statistics
Recent studies have shown that air transportation within West Africa accounts for less than 10% of the region’s growth, lagging far behind other African regions. Douka highlighted that:
– North Africa records 40.4% growth: A stark contrast to West Africa’s meager 10%.
– Southern Africa records 21.4% growth: Highlighting the region’s potential for improvement.
– East Africa records 20.5% growth: Demonstrating the potential for growth in air transport.
The ECOWAS Response
The ECOWAS leadership has taken steps to address the issue, charging the Commission to coordinate and harmonize air transport policies, programs, and projects of Member States. Douka emphasized the importance of the Lome meeting, which has the blessing of the Heads of State and Government, in addressing the gap.
Strategies for Change
The meeting aims to explore strategies for reducing air ticket costs, including:
– *Eliminating taxes*: In line with International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) principles and recommendations.
– *Reducing passenger service charges*: A 25% reduction in passenger service charges and security charges.
– *Reducing aviation fuel costs*: Making air transport more affordable.
Implementation and Awareness
The ECOWAS Commissioner urged Members of Parliament to engage strongly with Member States to raise awareness about the implementation of community texts, particularly the Additional Act relating to the common policy on fees, taxes, and air transport charges. The effective implementation start date has been set for January 1, 2026, allowing Member States 15 months to prepare.
A Call to Action
As ECOWAS celebrates its 50th anniversary, Douka emphasized the importance of highlighting the organization’s visibility and achievements in regional integration. He charged Members of Parliament to gain a comprehensive view of the challenges, issues, strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, and threats in the air transport sector.
working together, ECOWAS Member States can make air transport more accessible and affordable, supporting regional integration and economic growth. The time for change is now, and the region is counting on its leaders to implement the necessary reforms.
