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RwandAir CEO Yvonne Manzi Makolo has made history by taking on the esteemed position of Chair of the International Air Transport Association (IATA) Board of Governors (BoG). Makolo, the 81st chair and the first woman to hold this influential role, officially assumed her duties at the conclusion of the 79th IATA Annual General Meeting (AGM) in Istanbul, Türkiye on June 5th.

Having been a member of the BoG since November 2020, Makolo now steps into the spotlight, succeeding Mehmet Tevfik Nane, Chairperson of the Board at Pegasus Airlines, who will continue to serve on the BoG. This appointment is a testament to Makolo’s remarkable leadership skills and industry expertise.

Expressing her honour and pleasure, Makolo acknowledges the crucial role IATA plays for airlines worldwide, regardless of their size or business model. Leading a medium-sized airline in Africa, she brings a unique perspective to the table, enabling her to address common issues faced by airlines globally. With decarbonization, safety improvements, modern airline retailing transformation, and cost-efficient infrastructure at the forefront of her agenda, Makolo aims to drive progress in these areas.

Excitingly, Makolo’s appointment coincides with the launch of IATA’s Focus Africa initiative, which aims to unite the continent’s stakeholders in bolstering aviation’s contribution to Africa’s social and economic development. By championing this cause, Makolo hopes to foster collaboration among industry players, paving the way for a brighter future.

Makolo’s journey in the aviation industry began in 2017 when she assumed the role of RwandAir’s Deputy CEO in Charge of Corporate Affairs. Just a year later, she was appointed CEO, bringing with her 11 years of commercial expertise from her previous roles at telecommunications company MTN Rwanda. Her visionary leadership has propelled RwandAir to become one of Africa’s fastest-growing airlines, boasting a fleet of 13 modern aircraft.

In addition to her business accomplishments, Makolo has been instrumental in driving cultural change within RwandAir, focusing on inclusion, and diversity, and empowering women in under-represented roles. Her efforts have reshaped the airline’s dynamics and set an example for the industry as a whole.

Welcoming Makolo to her new role, Willie Walsh, IATA’s Director General, expressed his anticipation in working together to tackle pressing challenges such as sustainability, rebuilding the aviation workforce, and promoting diversity. He also extended his gratitude to Mehmet Nane for his exceptional support and leadership during the industry’s recovery from the COVID-19 pandemic.

Looking ahead, IATA has already announced that Pieter Elbers, CEO of IndiGo, will succeed Makolo as Chair of the BoG in June 2024. This succession plan ensures continuity and maintains a strong leadership foundation within the association.

Makolo’s appointment not only marks a significant milestone for the IATA but also serves as an inspiration for aspiring leaders in the aviation industry. Her groundbreaking achievement highlights the importance of gender diversity and equal representation at the highest levels of leadership, setting a new standard for the industry’s future.