Even though Qatar Airways had previously shown interest in the industry (particularly with the unclosed deal involving the Moscow airport, Vnukovo), it was initially thought to be an odd move for the airline when it signed an agreement with the Rwandan government in December 2019 to purchase a 60% stake in the new Bugesera Airport, which was currently under construction.
However, the airline’s strategy has been more apparent recently as it prepares itself to potentially acquire a 49% stake in an unidentified Southern African airline in addition to taking a 49% holding in the flag carrier, RundungAir.
A true continental level hub would be beneficial for Central and East Africa. Both Nairobi and Addis Ababa have the potential to become one, but for various reasons, neither one is able to cross the finish line.
Have fun reviewing movies and drinks
Qatar Airways could gain leverage in what is expected to be the world’s fastest growing aviation continent by starting from scratch, at an airport designed for hubbing transfer passengers (assuming it is), with a compliant minor partner, and in a nation that is beginning to show economic potential 30 years after its terrible civil war.
