In the evolving landscape of commerce and connectivity,
cargo plays a pivotal role, not only as a logistics function, but as an enabler
of economic inclusion.
Air cargo remains an often overlooked yet transformational
force in Africa’s development agenda. Across Kenya and Africa, the movement of
goods remains a defining factor in the success of SMEs and MSMEs.
As the continent’s aviation sector evolves, air cargo
presents a transformative opportunity for businesses to tap into regional
markets with speed and reliability; access to fast, reliable cargo transport
can mean the difference between stagnation and exponential growth.
The true power of air cargo lies in its ability to unlock
opportunities for small businesses. Budget airlines continue to prioritise
investment in cargo operations.
While current capacity allows for the transfer of up to 1.2
tonnes of cargo per flight, expanding and strengthening route networks is
equally critical.
A robust operating schedule with multiple daily connections
and up to 10 flights a day on key routes, enhances reliability, optimises cargo
flow, and unlocks new revenue opportunities.
This frequency is not just a logistical advantage; it’s an
economic lifeline.
Small and Medium Enterprises (SME's) in coastal hubs can now
reliably move goods inland and vice versa, opening up new markets and
shortening the time to market, which is critical for perishables and high-value
products.
Cargo expansion is not just about infrastructure; it’s about
vision. Underserved routes such as Mombasa to Kisumu and Nairobi to Lamu are
ripe with potential for economic stimulation.
The approach must be aligned with the shifting dynamics of
the global air cargo industry.
According to the
International Air Transport Association (IATA), air cargo, while representing
less than 1% of trade volume, accounts for a staggering 33% of trade value, which
is equivalent to $8.3 trillion annually.
Countries with just 1% better air cargo connectivity enjoy
up to 6% more trade. It is no coincidence then, that Jomo Kenyatta
International Airport (JKIA) was recently named Africa’s Cargo Airport of the
Year 2024, reflecting both the growing demand and strategic investments in
infrastructure.
However, the outlook is not without its challenges.
IATA recently revised its 2025 cargo projection to 69
million tonnes; a 4.8% decrease from its earlier forecast, signalling global
headwinds.
Despite this, Africa remains a bright spot, with African
airlines experiencing 8.5% year-on-year growth in 2024 and Africa–Asia routes
posting 15 consecutive months of growth.
Domestic low-cost carriers play a crucial role here by
offering flexible, cost-effective logistics tailored to SMEs.
Kenya stands at the cusp of a logistics revolution.
As the Eldoret International Airport expands its runway to
accommodate wide-body aircraft, our exporters from flower farmers to fruit
cooperatives will gain direct access to global markets without being funneled
through Nairobi.
This is a game-changer for the region and an opportunity to decentralize
economic prosperity.
Air cargo also facilitates the growing demand for vaccine
and pharmaceutical transport across the country.
Advanced cold-chain solutions and digitized cargo handling
systems are becoming the norm, and budget airlines must integrate these into
services to meet emerging needs.
Demand for
the smaller-package segment of freight (parcels) is also on the rise.
Cross-border e-commerce is expanding quickly, particularly in Africa where
online shoppers expect fast delivery of small parcels.
Regional
carriers are uniquely positioned to capture this intra-continental demand,
helping SMEs deliver purchases seamlessly across the region.
Ultimately, we must view aviation as a critical
infrastructure for development. A single aviation market is not just a dream;
it is a necessity.
By investing in policy reforms, embracing public-private
partnerships, and expanding our cargo capabilities, we are building a future
where SMEs and MSMEs are not constrained by geography but empowered by
opportunity.
