KENYA – Kenya Aiways Cargo (KQ Cargo) has added a new regular freighter service between Mogadishu in Somalia and Sharjah following the delivery of its first Boeing 737-800 freighter.

The carrier will initially operate the route weekly but hopes to add a second frequency in April. It has partnered with UAE-based cargo sales agent Global GSA Cargo on the service.

The launch of the new flight comes after the carrier added its first 737-800 freighter, which offers an extended range compared with its existing two 737-300Fs. KQ Cargo has plans to add a second 737-800F soon.

KQ Cargo director Dick Murianki said there was a need to invest in new cargo routes to help propel Africa’s prosperity by connecting its people, cultures and markets.

“We believe in having a direct service complemented by Dubai’s trader, transit, humanitarian, and project-driven traffic,” said Murianki.

“The direct route between UAE and Somalia offers huge demand for airfreight transportation, particularly high-tech consumer goods, automotive parts, project cargo, and clothing, which are the most frequently flown goods on the route.

“Kenya Airways’ has the expertise in the region, and our B737-800F’s apt capacity would be the ideal mix over the long term.”

Global GSA Cargo chief executive Kannan Nachiappan said the direct connection between UAE and Somalia offers customers more capacity, cuts transit times and reduces costs.

“UAE, being a multimodal logistics hub, acts as a primary gateway to Africa, and having a dedicated KQ Cargo freighter to offer this service helps cut transit times and offer scheduled maindeck capacity into several remote destinations across the region,” he said.

“This service would cover a market characterised by narrow body belly-only options, lengthy transit times, and expensive rates.”

Kenya Airways will also resume direct passenger flights between Nairobi and Mogadishu starting 15th February 2024.

The Sharjah Airport Authority (SAA) has announced the inclusion of Kenya Airways Cargo (KQ Cargo) into Sharjah Airport’s list of operating cargo companies.

The SAA says the inclusion is in line with its strategy to position Sharjah Airport as a leading international cargo hub. They added that the initiative underscores its dedication to fortifying and enhancing its partnerships with strategic allies.

To mark this milestone, a reception was recently hosted by the SAA in the presence of HE Ali Salim Al Midfa, chairman of SAA; HE Sheikh Faisal Bin Saoud Al Qassimi, director of SAA; Honoruble Cosmas Kimutai Sigei, chargé d’affaires, the Kenyan Embassy in Abu Dhabi; Allan Kilavuka, group managing director and chief executive of KQ Cargo; and a group of directors and representatives of the SAA and Kenya Airways plus several visitors from both countries.

“Sharjah Airport Authority is keen to develop the logistical aspect of the airport’s business and enhance cargo services for its clients, supported by a robust strategy designed to strengthen the airport’s position on the travel map,” HE Ali Salim Al Midfa said.

“We are proud of our extensive partnerships with international shipping companies that contribute to expanding the destinations available to customers, especially with the ongoing development of the shipping hub and our commitment to providing shipping services aligning with the highest approved standards.”

The addition of KQ Cargo to Sharjah Airport’s operating cargo companies marks a significant milestone in the strategic vision of both organizations.  

KQ Cargo will operate four (4) weekly flights utilizing a B737F cargo aircraft from Nairobi, Kenya, to Sharjah Airport, United Arab Emirates with routes extending through various African destinations. 

This initiative is poised to strengthen trade relations between the United Arab Emirates and African countries, tapping into the significant demand for cargo services within the region.

“The United Arab Emirates is ranked among the top exports and imports trading partner for Kenya and other African countries. This trade constitutes around 10% of the UAE’s total trade,” Kilavuka said.

“The launch of KQ Cargo flights from Sharjah to African cities is therefore significant in tapping into this growing demand that will catalyse business growth within the Middle East and Africa.

“Our new Boeing 737-800 Freighters offers increased cargo capacity, a range of up to seven hours out of Sharjah to destinations across Africa and is available for charters.”

Liked this article? Subscribe to DealStreet Africa News, our regular email newsletter with the latest news, deals and insights from Africa’s business, economy, and more. SUBSCRIBE HERE