Emirates SkyCargo and Astral Aviation Sign MoU to Enhance African Trade

Emirates SkyCargo and Kenya’s Astral Aviation have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to strengthen cargo connectivity and boost trade to and from Africa. This partnership aims to expand cargo interline options and establish block space agreements, enhancing the reach of African businesses in global markets.

Sanjeev Gadhia, CEO of Astral Aviation, highlighted the significance of this collaboration, stating, “Today marks a pivotal step in our over 15-year commercial partnership and reflects our shared vision to elevate air cargo solutions to, from, and within Africa.” Badr Abbas, Emirates SkyCargo’s divisional senior vice president, emphasized Africa’s growth potential, noting, “Home to 11 of the 20 fastest-growing economies, there is immense growth potential in Africa. This partnership with Astral Aviation solidifies our longstanding commitment to the market, creating mutually beneficial economic opportunities.”

Astral Aviation operates an extensive intra-African network, serving 50 destinations through scheduled and ad-hoc charters from hubs in Nairobi, Johannesburg, Liège, and Dubai. Emirates SkyCargo complements this with a global network spanning over 145 destinations, utilizing a fleet of passenger aircraft and dedicated freighters. Both airlines specialize in handling sensitive cargo, including fresh produce and pharmaceuticals, which are vital to the region’s trade.

This agreement follows the recent signing of a Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA) between the United Arab Emirates and Kenya in January 2025. The CEPA aims to accelerate trade and investment across sectors such as agriculture, infrastructure, healthcare, travel and tourism, financial services, and renewable energy. The collaboration between Emirates SkyCargo and Astral Aviation aligns with the goals of the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA), which seeks to increase Africa’s exports to the rest of the world by 32% by 2035.

Emirates SkyCargo commenced operations in Africa in April 1986 with its inaugural flight to Cairo, Egypt. Over nearly four decades, the airline has expanded its presence, now offering seven scheduled freighters and bellyhold capacity on 172 passenger flights per week to 20 African destinations. Astral Aviation, with 24 years of experience, continues to provide cost-effective and reliable cargo solutions across the continent.

This partnership is poised to unlock new opportunities, drive innovation, and strengthen global trade connectivity for African businesses.

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Sources: AirGuide Business airguide.info, bing.com, ch-aviation.com