Yaoundé, the Cameroonian capital, was the nerve center of sub-regional civil aviation. Indeed, from June 11 to 12, 2026, the Directors General of Central African civil aviation authorities gathered for a highly important strategic coordination session. This major meeting was held at the invitation of Mrs. AVOMO ASSOUMOU Paule, wife KOKI, Director General of the Cameroon Civil Aviation Authority (CCAA), acting in her capacity as Vice-President of the African Civil Aviation Commission (AFCAC) for the Central Africa region.

The primary objective of this conclave was to strengthen regional coordination and harmonize the positions of Central African States in preparation for the major international deadlines of 2026. The stakes were high: speaking with one single voice to defend the interests of the sub-region during the upcoming global and continental events. These notably include the 2026 African Air Transport Convention and Exhibition in Lomé (Togo) from June 15 to 19, 2026, the AFI Aviation Week, the ICAO Air Transport Conference scheduled for November 16 to 20, 2026, in Montreal (Canada), as well as the upcoming ICAN conference in Equatorial Guinea. Beyond these deadlines, the summit provided an ideal opportunity for participants to discuss major regional issues, define common strategies, and establish highly effective representation and coordination mechanisms.

To successfully guide these reflections, the proceedings were led by two major figures in international civil aviation: Mr. ESONO ANGUESOMO, Permanent Representative of the Central Africa Region to ICAO, and Mr. ZOA ETUNDI Engelbert, Permanent Representative of Cameroon to ICAO. It is worth noting that the meeting adopted a hybrid format to ensure the participation of all decision-makers. The proceedings took place in person in Yaoundé, but an online broadcast also allowed directors who were unable to travel to contribute actively to the debates.

The in-person sessions were held at the CCAA Training School (Efo). A true benchmark institution in Central Africa for training in civil aviation safety and security professions, the Efo offers a modern, high-tech setting that matches the ambitions of this summit. 

At a time when African air transport is undergoing a major transformation, this Yaoundé conclave stands out as the essential springboard to propel Central Africa to the forefront of global aviation governance. By joining forces and visions, the sub-region's sky leaders are preparing to pave the way for a stronger, more integrated aviation sector resolutely focused on the future.

ABOUBAKAR NSANGOU/BC-PRU

Translation: MKG/ARO-PRU