By Khulile Thwala
“A year of turnaround”. These were the words stated by His Majesty King Mswati III during his Speech from the Throne, which are now on par with the African aviation industry’s theme for this year.
In two days, the African Airlines Association (AFRAA) will convene its 11th Aviation Stakeholders’ Convention in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia with the theme “Changing the African Aviation Narrative”.
This, according to Eswatini Air Board Chairperson Mndeni Mazibuko aligns with the King’s remarks from the Speech from the Throne.
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He said His Majesty’s remarks signalled that there is a need for the country to make a turnaround and change the way things are done, while AFRAA says they should sit around the table and talk about how they can change the narrative of the aviation industry.
“It appears to me that all leaders recognise the need to change the way we do things,” said the Board chair.
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He further said when Heads of State and leaders of society speak in one voice and make a conscious decision to move in the same direction, which results in the birth of national airlines.
The close and familial ties between the Kingdom of Eswatini and Kwa-Zulu Natal were also highlighted by the chair, who said the opening of the direct route allowed the two nations to embrace each other more.
“We have no doubt that this route will preserve our rich history for generations to come,” said Mazibuko.