The Minister for Transport, Hon. Joseph Bukari Nikpe, has welcomed the maiden flight of Air Tanzania to Ghana, describing it as a historic breakthrough in the country’s aviation journey. Speaking at the Kotoka International Airport, the Minister recalled the pride of Ghana, the Ghana Airways, which was once a symbol of the Black Star in the skies, acknowledging that the airline was liquidated years ago and that several attempts to re-establish a national carrier had not materialized.
However, he assured Ghanaians that under the leadership of His Excellency President John Dramani Mahama, a task force has been set up and working diligently, and that Ghana Airlines would be revived in the next 12 months.
“Within the next period of 12 months we will be celebrating Ghana Airlines flying to the rest of the world. Very soon we will re-establish our own national airline because the task force is doing a good job and we are up to task,” he stated
The Minister further highlighted Ghana’s improved aviation infrastructure, pointing to the expansion of Kotoka International Airport and the plan underway to connect Terminal 2 and Terminal 3 to ensure seamless travel for passengers.
The ceremony was also graced by the Minister for Transport of the United Republic of Tanzania, Prof. Makame Mabarawa who spoke on the strategic importance of the new route describing the launch of the flight between Dar es Salaam and Accra as more than a transportation link.
“This new route represents more than a transportation link, it is a strategic bridge that will enhance mobility between our two nations while strengthening the historical, cultural and economic bonds that unite Tanzania and Ghana,” he expressed
Prof. Makame further commended the management and staff of Air Tanzania for their professionalism and vision, while expressing appreciation to the Government of Ghana for granting the necessary approvals and extending hospitality to Air Tanzania.
Ghana’s Minister for Tourism, Culture and Creative Arts, Hon. Abla Dzifa Gomashie, at the event emphasized the broader significance of the collaboration between the two countries for tourism and regional integration, stating the essence of connectivity in promoting tourism.
“We are not just witnessing the arrival of another international airline to our capital, but also witnessing the strengthening of the umbilical cord that connects East and West Africa. Three of the most important things that affect our continent, especially tourism, are the lack of connectivity, infrastructure and the building of the capacity of industry players and by reducing travel time within our region, we are connecting it stronger,” she remarked.
The maiden flight of Air Tanzania to Ghana is therefore not only a celebration of aviation progress but also a reaffirmation of the shared vision of both countries to deepen cooperation, stimulate tourism, encourage trade, and create new economic opportunities. It marks the beginning of a new chapter in Ghana’s aviation story and strengthens the ties between Ghana and Tanzania, while contributing to the broader goal of African integration, unity and a borderless continent.
