African skies are no longer just for the wealthy few flying private jets – they’ve become a lifeline for economic and social development. That was the message from Dawit Lemma, Chair of the African Business Aviation Association (AfBAA) and CEO of Krimson Aviation, during the Aviation Africa 2025 Summit in Kigali, Rwanda. Describing the city as “a symbol of African innovation and resilience,” Lemma urged delegates to rethink what business aviation really means on the continent.
Citing the US FAA’s definition of aviation as simply “using an aircraft as a business tool to save time,” Lemma stressed that it’s not just about flashy Gulfstreams or Bombardier jets. Across Africa, business aviation takes many forms: Cessna Caravans switching between commercial, charter, and medevac roles in Nairobi; farmers using small planes to reach markets; helicopters supporting anti-poaching patrols; and drones delivering medical supplies to remote villages. Rwanda’s famous Zipline drone service, which supplies blood and medicines to rural communities, is one shining example.
“These are not luxuries,” Lemma told delegates. “This is business aviation as an enabler of development.” He pointed out that Africa, once seen as a dumping ground for old aircraft, now leads globally in new or nearly-new fleet adoption. With markets growing fast, Africa’s skies are drawing global attention. “The world can no longer afford to ignore African skies,” he declared.
The economic and social impact is huge. From connecting farmers to buyers, to doctors reaching remote villages, to drones mapping pipelines and delivering aid, each flight represents opportunity and progress. Lemma reminded the audience that business aviation in Africa is about empowerment, not elitism.
Looking ahead, AfBAA has launched a new committee dedicated to drones and advanced air mobility (AAM). Rwanda, already home to Zipline and Africa’s first electric air taxi flight, was the perfect stage for the announcement. “Just as Africa leapfrogged landlines for mobile phones, we will leapfrog into the skies,” Lemma said.
Since taking up the AfBAA chairmanship in May, his mission has been clear: amplify the industry’s voice, tackle structural challenges, and promote safety, harmonised regulations, and training. He also wants to welcome new players like UAV and AAM operators into the fold.
He closed with a call to action: “Let us shift the paradigm. In Africa, business aviation is not optional – it is essential.”
