Niamey: The 3rd edition of the Civil Aviation Days (JDAC) of the Alliance of Sahel States (AES), which took place from April 21 to 22, 2026, concluded with the signing of an agreement to establish a joint airline. The signing was conducted by key officials, including the Nigerien Minister of Civil Aviation, Colonel Major Abdourahamane Amadou, Malian Minister Ms. Demb©l© Madina Sissoko, and Ms. Kiswendsida Alice OUEDRAOGO, representing the Burkinabe Minister of State in charge of Territorial Administration and Mobility.
According to Burkina Information Agency, the event's focus was on the theme "Civil aviation as a factor of economic integration, resilience and mobility within the ESA". The assembly adopted several recommendations, expressed gratitude, and issued a final communiqu©. Participants urged ESA member states' civil aviation authorities to pool resources by creating regional hubs for aircraft maintenance, staff training, and group purchasing. Additionally, they recommended forming a multidisciplinary team to draft a roadmap for unified civil aviation development in the confederation.
The gathering also recognized the significance of air freight and recommended that ESA states promote its growth. During the closing remarks, Colonel Major Abdourahamane Amadou emphasized the shared experiences and ideas exchanged, which aim to enhance civil aviation service. He highlighted the challenges and opportunities identified, underscoring aviation's role beyond transportation, representing sovereignty, integration, and development.
Colonel Major Abdourahamane Amadou outlined four foundational pillars established during the meeting: Responsibility, Integration, Resilience, and Growth. He lauded the creation of the joint airline as a historic step toward unifying the Sahel States and promoting connectivity. Additionally, a joint accident investigation bureau was launched, signifying transparency and safety.
The Nigerien minister assured the Togolese delegation that the recommendations from Niamey would be actively pursued, driven by collective determination.