It is, indeed, a great pleasure for me to be here this evening and to say a few words on this auspicious occasion, in the field of Civil Aviation, for both the Republic of Zambia and the Republic of South Africa.
South Africa shares a mutually beneficial Air Services Agreement with the Republic of Zambia. Over the past 17 years, the air transport mode between our two countries has bolstered a positive relationship. This has culminated in yet another bold step forward in providing entry of another Zambian airline into South Africa. I extend my heartfelt congratulations to Zambezi Airlines on your introductory flight into Johannesburg. I sincerely wish the Zambezi Airline team all the best going forward.
In July 2006, our government approved an Airlift Strategy. The objective of the strategy was to liberalise our skies. To date, we have already achieved a 40% increase in air traffic frequencies being granted within the various bilateral air services agreements, which we have concluded with other countries.
Equally pleasing is that we have concluded a number of Yamoussoukro decision compliant agreements. Such an increase in air traffic frequency capacity is only viable when operators show confidence in the market and continue to operate flights to entry points, as encapsulated by the respective air services agreements. To this end, I must applaud the new entrant to our country, Zambezi Airlines.
The past years have, indeed, provided the aviation market with great destinations in Zambia such as Lusaka, Ndola, Livingstone and Mfuwe. South African carriers currently operate 58 flights per week to these destinations. The introduction of a Zambian designated airline, into Johannesburg, clearly articulates and demonstrates that there remains a continuing demand in air travel between South Africa and Zambia. South Africa is, as much, your home, as it is ours.
We must encourage the further liberalisation of our skies as this would, inevitably, result in the introduction of more flights between our countries. This will, certainly, lead to further strengthening of our long-standing relationship. Whilst we embark upon the economic necessity of liberalising our aviation market, we must ensure that the safety and security integrity of the industry is maintained, and continues to meet the requirements for the safe and orderly development of international civil aviation.
The recent Air France Flight tragedy is a sad moment for the aviation industry. This ill-fated accident, clearly, indicates how aviation safety continues to be a daunting challenge, not only for Africa but the rest of the world. On behalf of our government, our thoughts and prayers are with all the affected families, friends and loved ones of the Air France tragedy during these difficult moments. Honourable Ministers and distinguished guests, we are here today to mark a defining moment for the Republic of Zambia the entry of a new Zambian airline into South Africa.
On behalf of South Africa, may I extend our hand in co-operating with the Zambian Civil Aviation fraternity on a technical platform? I am certain that such co-operation will result in the provision of safer skies for all. The introduction of Zambezi Airlines is well-timed. As you all know, in a week's time, South Africa will host the FIFA Confederations Cup. We are doing everything possible to make the Confederations Cup, which kicks-off on 14 June, a huge success.
The forthcoming FIFA 2010 World Cup is an African event. As stated by President Jacob Zuma, during the State of the Nation Address on Tuesday, 3 June 2009, we have, as government and the nation at large, pledged that the World Cup will leave a proud legacy from which our children and our communities will benefit for many years to come. To this end, I am appreciative that we have a Zambian carrier who will certainly play a pivotal role in providing air travel capacity to these key events.
I am confident that both Zambians and South African spectators will sit shoulder to shoulder in full support, and celebrate the football spectacular which will unfold in front of us shortly.
In conclusion, whilst the world is facing an economic challenge, there is no better time for the African aviation community than now. The confidence instilled by Zambia in civil aviation must be applauded.
Issued by: Department of Transport
6 June 2009
Source: SAPA
