From childhood, we’ve been ingrained with the belief that foreign-made goods and businesses outshine our own in Africa. Consequently, “Made in Ghana” labels are rare, as even Ghanaian businesses opt for branding their products as “Made in China” or “Made in US”.
But how can our economies flourish if we neglect our own creations? Take the example of Air Peace, shaking up the Lagos-London market with competitive pricing, compelling giants like British Airways to slash fares.
Now is the time for Nigerians to rally behind Air Peace and shun foreign airlines that overcharge us. Consider the countless Nigerians flying from Lagos or Abuja to London daily—imagine the revenue they generate for foreign carriers. The same applies in Ghana; let’s envision an Accra-London route serviced by Air Peace.
As a Pan-Africanist, I staunchly advocate for the growth of homegrown businesses. I’ll continue championing Air Peace until it dominates the aviation sector.
To Air Peace, I urge a price adjustment for the Lagos-Accra route; a 40-minute flight shouldn’t exceed $150. I implore the governments of Nigeria, Ghana, Togo, and Benin Republic to waive airspace taxes for African airlines in the ECOWAS region. Air travel ought to be affordable for all, including students, given the high air traffic on the Lagos-Accra route.
It’s time for African enterprises to lead the global stage by prioritizing African interests.
John Kofi Annan, a fervent Pan-Africanist.
