By Morkporkpor Anku
Accra, Oct. 28, GNA – Mr Joseph Bukari Nikpe, Minister of Transport, has welcomed the inaugural Uganda Airlines flight to Ghana, describing it as a significant step towards strengthening air connectivity between West and East Africa.
He said the new route would promote trade, tourism, business and economic cooperation between Ghana and Uganda, while supporting broader efforts to improve intra-African connectivity.
The Minister was speaking at the inaugural flight ceremony in Accra, where he welcomed the Ugandan delegation and assured the airline of the government’s support.
He said transportation remained a backbone of economic development, adding that efficient transport systems were essential for investment, trade, tourism and business growth across the continent.
Mr Nikpe said the government was investing in aviation infrastructure to position Accra as a preferred aviation hub in West Africa.
He said three domestic airports were being developed at Sunyani, Wa and Bolgatanga to encourage air travel within the country.
He also said the government was working towards reviving Ghana’s national airline, with a task force established by the President nearing the completion of its work.
The Minister urged airlines to consider making airfares more affordable to enable more Africans to travel and benefit from improved connectivity, noting that high ticket prices could limit the gains from investments in aviation infrastructure.
Mr Philip Odida, Charge d’Affaires, Uganda High Commission Abuja said the inaugural flight marked an important milestone in relations between Ghana and Uganda, creating opportunities for stronger diplomatic ties and economic cooperation.
He said Ghana was an important market for Uganda and that the new route would support efforts to promote bilateral relations, facilitate business partnerships and expand investment and trade opportunities.
Mr Odida said the service would also support the objectives of the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) by helping businesses access new markets, diversifying regional supply chains and promoting the movement of goods and services across Africa.
He called on tourism operators, trade agencies, businesses and investors in both countries to take advantage of the new connection to expand commercial partnerships and increase travel.
Reverend Wilfred Stephen Arthur, Director-General of the Ghana Civil Aviation Authority (GCAA), reaffirmed the Authority’s commitment to maintaining high standards of aviation safety and security, describing them as non-negotiable values.
He said Ghana had modernised its air navigation services, deployed advanced surveillance and communication technology, constructed a new air traffic control tower and introduced the Advance Passenger Information and Passenger Name Record (API/PNR) systems.
Rev. Arthur said the Authority’s safety and security oversight systems, implemented in line with International Civil Aviation Organisation standards, had attracted international recognition and helped build confidence among airlines operating in Ghana.
He assured Uganda Airlines and other carriers of the GCAA’s commitment to providing safe, secure and efficient services to support airline operations, tourism development and regional integration.
GNA
Edited by Linda Asante Agyei
Reporter: Morkporkpor Anku
Email: [email protected]