Former Ghana Airways worker appointed new IATA Vice President for Africa

The International Air Transport Association (IATA) has appointed a former worker of the defunct Ghana Airways to be the group’s Vice President for Africa.

Mr Raphael Kuuchi’s appointment was announced by IATA on November 25, 2013.

Mr Kuuchi’s new job takes effect February 14, 2014 as he succeeds Mike Higgins whom IATA, has reassigned to be the Regional Head of Airport, Cargo and Passenger Services for Europe.

The Director General and CEO of IATA, Tony Tyler said “Raphael brings the expertise needed to ensure that IATA will continue to deliver leadership to these efforts, value to our members and partnership for the many stakeholders counting on our support and expertise.”

Accepting the new role, Mr Kuuchi commented “I look forward to leading IATA in Africa at this important time in the development of the continent’s aviation sector. Governments have committed to the Abuja Declaration with the ambitious but achievable goal of a world-class safety record by 2015. Supporting this will be at the top of a very full agenda that includes working with governments to promote liberalization, develop infrastructure and create a more business-friendly environment with an appropriate tax framework and effective regulation.”

He added “There are many opportunities for IATA and global standards to play a critical role in Africa’s development. I look forward to working with partners across the continent to support the success of these initiatives. This includes very close cooperation with AFRAA.”

Mr Kuuchi began his career at Ghana Airways in 1991. His 15-year career at Ghana Airways included work in commercial, corporate planning and accounting functions in both Accra and Johannesburg.

Between 2005 and 2012, he was Director of Commercial and Information Communication Technology at the African Airlines Association (AFRAA).

Mr Kuuchi is currently the Director of Commercial, Corporate and Industry Affairs at AFRAA.

By Ekow Quandzie