The International Air Cargo Association (TIACA) and the African Airlines Association (AFRAA) have signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) to work closely on issues affecting air cargo, from security to digitisation.

The MoU was signed at the 49th AFRAA Annual General Assembly (AGA) in Kigali, Rwanda, and TIACA will collaborate with AFRAA’s 40 members from across the aviation sector to support the rapidly developing air cargo sector in Africa.

The two associations will work to improve air cargo safety and security, as well as champion industry’s adoption of digitisation, and offer new training initiatives.

Other areas of cooperation include advocating for improved market access across the continent, the modernisation of air cargo facilities and services, and promoting environmental best practice, as well as working together on future events.

TIACA secretary general, Vladimir Zubkov says: “TIACA stands to benefit from better connection with the continent, which is the fastest developing in air cargo movement. We are happy to offer assistance from TIACA in structuring the air cargo part of the future AFRAA agenda.”

The MoU was signed by Zubkov and AFRAA secretary general, Dr Elijah Chingosho in the presence of Astral Aviation founder and chief executive officer, Sanjeev Gadhia and AFRAA secretary general designee, Abderahmane Berthe.

Chingosho says: “It is indeed important that the oft-neglected cargo sector receives the attention it deserves at AFRAA forums and conferences. Indeed, our Association with TIACA, of which Vladimir has played a large role, will significantly help our airlines in developing their cargo sector.”

He adds: “AFRAA appreciates TIACA’s attendance at our AGA, participating in panel discussions and raising critical cargo and other issues, as well as our two organisations signing the MoU.”