Rwanda’s prospects to become a regional hub linking East and Central Africa to the rest of the world is moving closer to reality with each passing day.

The East African Community (EAC) is a lucrative market that has already caught the attention of global brands. For East Africans, the formation of a Common Market is helping create a strong ready market with a population of 130 million and a middle class estimated at 30 million consumers. With South Sudan showing serious interest in joining the EAC, this addition is bound to expand further by another 10 million people.

Rwanda, located right at the centre of Sub-Saharan Africa, is  strategically placed as the perfect link of Central and East Africa.

Rwanda’s strategic location and direct linkages, has various implications for the country and the region.

By opening up a Kigali route, Turkish Airlines is strategically positioning itself as a player in the huge market that is quickly opening up.

By kick-starting the Istanbul-Kigali route, the airline will connect Kigali not only to Istanbul but also 72 other cities in Europe and many other parts of the world.

The entry of the Turkish Airlines will also strengthen the local aviation industry through its partnership with the national carrier, RwandAir.  It will provide the national carrier with support in capacity building and fleet maintenance among several other services.

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