Lanseria International Airport is poised to redefine its role as a pivotal aviation hub in Africa following a shift in its shareholding structure.
This comes as decisions by two of the airport’s major shareholders – the Government Employees Pension Fund (GEPF) and the Pan African Infrastructure Development Fund (PAIDF) – have set the stage for a plan aimed at positioning the airport as the continent’s “gateway to Africa”.
The GEPF, represented by the Public Investment Corporation, yesterday announced an increase in its shareholding at Lanseria, while PAIDF prepares to realign its interests through the establishment of a new investment vehicle called Harith Infraco Limited.
This restructuring marks the first major change since 2013, a year that saw the GEPF, alongside PAIDF and an empowerment consortium led by Nozala Investments, acquire ownership of the airport.
Rampa Rammopo, CEO of Lanseria International Airport, expressed optimism regarding the investors’ renewed commitment.
He said that this restructuring not only reinforced the shareholders' confidence in the airport’s growth trajectory but also paved the way for unlocking crucial capital to fund a series of vital infrastructure projects.
These include plans for a cargo precinct, a Maintenance Repair Overhaul facility, and enhancements to the airport's Fixed Based Operator precinct. Lanseria is also looking to upgrade its Taxiway infrastructure, featuring the development of a new fuel farm.
According to Rammopo, these capital projects will increase the airport’s efficiency and reliability, attracting international trade and logistic partners, revitalize te airport’s general aviation services, expand its operational capacity, reinforcing its reputation for excellence while enhancing Lanseria’s competitiveness on the global stage.
As to the airport’s vision of long-term growth and sustainability, Lanseria has set its sights on regional expansion through acquiring and managing airports across Africa.
“This speaks to our ambition to the growth of aviation infrastructure across the continent,” Rammopo said.
With Lanseria International Airport moving into its next phase of growth, Rammopo said its reinvigorated ownership structure will maintain its clear focus on innovation and expansion.
“Lanseria remains focused on strengthening our role as a gateway to Africa, fostering growth in both the business and tourism sectors and building our domestic economy,” Rammopo said. - BR Reporter.
BUSINESS REPORT