CEO of Qatar Airways Announces Plans to Invest in Airline in Southern Africa

Qatar Airways

During the Qatar Economic Forum in Doha on Wednesday, the CEO of Qatar Airways revealed plans for an upcoming investment in an airline based in southern Africa, signaling the Gulf carrier's commitment to expanding its presence on the African continent.

"We are in the final stages of negotiations for an equity investment in a southern African airline," stated Badr Mohammed Al Meer during a panel discussion, noting that the announcement could be expected within two to three weeks. Al Meer, who assumed the role of CEO in November, highlighted the strategic importance of addressing the gap in Qatar Airways' network coverage in southern Africa.

Furthermore, Al Meer expressed Qatar Airways' ambition to bolster the fleets of its partner airlines across Africa, with the aim of enhancing regional connectivity.

In 2019, Qatar Airways secured a 60% stake in a new $1.3 billion international airport project in Rwanda, demonstrating its long-term commitment to the African market. Additionally, the airline has established code-share agreements with various African carriers, including Rwandair. Yvonne Manzi Makolo, CEO of Rwandair, indicated during the forum that the new airport project could potentially be operational by 2027-28.