— New Route to Boost Trade, Tourism, and Pan-African Cooperation
Accra, Oct. 14 — Ghana and Tanzania have taken a major step toward deepening bilateral relations and promoting intra-African connectivity with the approval of Air Tanzania’s operations between Dar es Salaam and Accra.
The Ghana Civil Aviation Authority (GCAA) has granted the East African carrier a Validated Foreign Air Operator Certificate (VFAOC), officially authorising it to begin commercial flights into Ghana. The airline also received a Dangerous Goods Authorisation Certificate, allowing it to safely transport hazardous materials in compliance with international aviation standards.
The certificates were presented by Rev. Stephen Wilfred Arthur, Acting Director-General of the GCAA, to a Tanzanian delegation led by Mr. Selestine Kakele, High Commissioner-Designate of Tanzania to Ghana, at a brief ceremony held at the GCAA Headquarters, Kotoka International Airport.
Strengthening Ghana–Tanzania Relations
Mr. Kakele described the launch of direct flights as a “strategic milestone” in the long-standing partnership between the two nations, rooted in shared history, Pan-African ideals, and mutual commitment to regional development.
“This connection is not only about air transport; it represents a bridge between our peoples and economies,” he said, noting that the service will promote business, tourism, and cultural exchange between West and East Africa.
A Boost to Africa’s Aviation Integration
Rev. Arthur welcomed Air Tanzania’s entry into Ghana’s aviation market as a significant contribution to the Single African Air Transport Market (SAATM) — a key African Union initiative under Agenda 2063 that seeks to liberalise the continent’s airspace and enhance economic integration.
“Air Tanzania’s operations support the broader vision of a fully connected Africa, where movement of people and goods becomes seamless,” he said.
He also reaffirmed Ghana’s commitment to advancing aviation infrastructure and skills development, referencing ongoing plans to revive a national carrier and transform Ho Airport into a centre for aviation training.
Expanding Regional Air Connectivity
Industry observers say the new route will provide passengers and businesses with an alternative gateway linking East and West Africa, potentially reducing travel time and boosting trade along key corridors.
The development comes amid growing momentum across the continent to strengthen intra-African transport links, improve logistics efficiency, and encourage investment in aviation as a driver of economic growth.
Air Tanzania’s expansion into Ghana marks another step toward realising the vision of a truly interconnected African aviation market — one that embodies the spirit of Pan-Africanism once championed by leaders like Kwame Nkrumah and Julius Nyerere.
