Rwanda: Strengthening air connectivity
This decision was taken during a meeting of the council of ministers, chaired by President Paul Kagame, which was held on Monday, May 26, in Urugwiro village.
The agreements were ratified and signed between the Government of Rwanda and those of Eswatini, Guinea, Liberia, Malawi, Mali, Zimbabwe, Georgia, France, Poland, Oman, Suriname and Canada.
These agreements provide a legal framework for the operation of air transport services between Rwanda and each of the respective countries.
These agreements facilitate the movement of people, goods, exports, and imports. They are intended to strengthen trade relations and promote tourism.
While these ratifications do not result in the immediate launch of flights, they allow airlines such as RwandAir to negotiate traffic rights and launch new services once all regulatory and commercial conditions are met.
This move is part of Rwanda’s strategy to become a continental and global air transport hub. It is supported by major infrastructure projects such as Bugesera International Airport and long-term investments in the national carrier, RwandAir.
Rwanda has already signed a total of 108 BASAs with countries around the world. This includes 49 agreements with African states, 25 with European countries, 19 with Middle Eastern and Asian countries, and 15 with nations in the Americas.
According to the Rwandan government, these agreements are essential to enable the establishment of cross-border air services. They constitute a key tool for strengthening regional and international economic integration.
BASAs are international treaties that define how airlines from two countries can operate flights between them.
They govern aspects such as flight frequencies, cargo rights, destination cities, and operational standards. They are designed to ensure fair, safe, and competitive air services between signatory countries.
The ratification of these agreements is part of a broader programme addressed by the Council of Ministers.
