Kenya to leverage air cargo and logistics to boost trade

Speaking at the Air Cargo and Transport Logistics Africa 2025 Conference in Nairobi, Kenya Airports Authority (KAA) Chairman Caleb Kositany reaffirmed  the country’s commitment to strengthening multimodal transport solutions.

“The convergence of multimodal transport solutions across Africa, including air freight, maritime shipping, rail networks, and road transportation, will be key in realizing the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA),” said Kositany.

He pointed to the planned Sea-Air Terminals at Moi International Airport, which will enhance cargo movement by integrating sea freight with air freight for quicker regional distribution.

Additionally, he noted that the LAPSSET corridor’s connection to Isiolo International Airport offers a strategic opportunity for faster cargo movement across Africa.

Kositany also emphasized that Kenya’s continued investment in air cargo infrastructure aims to increase efficiency and position the country as a global logistics hub.

“We are committed to ensuring that Kenya remains a leader in air cargo handling by modernizing our airports and ensuring seamless connectivity to international markets,” he stated.

Speaking at the three-day conference, Kenya Airways (KQ) CEO Allan Kilavuka reaffirmed the airline’s commitment to improving cargo logistics through its extensive global network of 54 destinations, dedicated freighter fleet, and advanced cargo handling facilities at Jomo Kenyatta International Airport.

“Cargo is more than just freight; it is the lifeblood of economies, the bridge between businesses, and the catalyst for global growth,” Kilavuka noted.

He underscored the importance of digital transformation, stating that Kenya Airways Cargo is investing in technology to streamline operations, enhance tracking, and improve customer experience.

“At Kenya Airways Cargo, we are investing in digital solutions to enhance tracking, automate processes, and improve efficiency for our customers,” he added.

Kilavuka also emphasized sustainability efforts, including fuel efficiency measures and optimized routes to reduce carbon emissions. He called for greater collaboration between airlines, freight companies, and policymakers to unlock Africa’s full trade potential.

The conference, which brought together key stakeholders in the aviation and logistics industry, underscored the need for modern infrastructure, regulatory improvements, and innovation to enhance Kenya’s competitiveness as a regional trade hub.