Africa World Airlines launches Accra-Ouagadougou route
Africa World Airlines (AWA) has officially commenced direct flights between Accra and Ouagadougou, Burkina Faso, reinforcing its expansion into the Sahel region and advancing intra-African connectivity under the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA).
The inaugural flight was announced at a ceremony in Accra, where Togbe Afede XIV, Founder of AWA and Agbogbomefia of the Asogli State, highlighted the airline’s commitment to regional integration.
“Our safety record is great. Our reliability is great, and that’s the kind of tradition we expect to continue—the service we want to offer our friends from Burkina Faso,” he stated.
He further linked the new route to broader political and economic objectives, saying, “Hopefully, through them, we’ll link all of the Sahel to the rest of Africa, in line with President John Mahama’s vision of bringing Burkina Faso and Niger back into the fold.”
Passenger concerns and airfare adjustments
Addressing concerns over rising ticket prices, Togbe Afede XIV acknowledged the financial pressures in the aviation sector but assured passengers of AWA’s commitment to value and safety.
“I know that our passengers are concerned about ticket prices. We all need to understand that aviation is a very difficult business—capital intensive, with very small margins. Passengers demand the best of services, and we strive to provide the best value for money as we work to integrate the continent,” he explained.
He also hinted at possible fare reductions following the recent appreciation of the Ghana cedi but cautioned that adjustments would take time.
“Yes, prices will go down, but it takes time. Many of our costs were based on the old exchange rate, and we continue to meet obligations priced at those earlier levels. But I want to assure our customers that AWA is committed to value, service, and most importantly—safety.”
Expanding regional footprint
AWA will initially operate three weekly flights on the Accra-Ouagadougou route, with plans to increase frequency based on demand. The new service positions AWA among the few carriers offering regular commercial flights between Ghana and Burkina Faso, fostering trade, tourism, and diplomatic ties.
Togbe Afede XIV called for support from industry partners and stakeholders to help AWA realise its vision of connecting Ghana and Africa globally.
With this strategic move, AWA strengthens its role in West Africa’s aviation sector while supporting broader economic integration across the Sahel.
