Interview with AfDB Manager for Infrastructure Finance, Private Sector Department on Importance of Developing Air Transportation in Africa

21 September 2012

A high-level delegation from the Brazilian Development Bank (BNDES) visited the African Development Bank Group on September 18 in Tunis to share industry knowledge that may help revolutionize aviation in Africa. The workshop entitled “Developing Africa’s Air Transportation” was co-chaired by Tas Anvaripour, Manager for Infrastructure Finance in the Private Sector Department of the African Development Bank.

Question: What is the project about and what developmental impacts are expected?

Answer: The project intends to procure Embraer E-170/190 jets, which are considered to be the world’s most optimal aircraft in their class (70-120 seats; medium-haul), for onward placement in six to seven different African airlines through an Africa-based leasing facility.

The project is expected to: i) serve over 1.15 million passengers every year, ii) result in the creation of over 1,600 direct jobs, and iii) catalyze some US $68 million in additional tax revenues per annum. By lowering operational costs, improving intra-Africa connectivity, promoting competition, and introducing a strong demonstration effect, the project may contribute to lowering airfares, thereby increasing the number of people who benefit from air transport in Africa.

The project is in line with the Bank’s Regional Integration Strategy Papers (RISPs), the Bank’s Medium Term Strategy (MTS) to support Infrastructure and Private Sector Development, and the Bank’s Long Term Strategy (LTS) (draft form). Additionally, the project is aligned with the African Union’s Yamoussoukro Decision and NEPAD’s orientation towards the air industry.

Read complete interview on AfDB website...

Category: Transport