BE CAREFUL ON  ETHIOPIAN AIRLINES DEAL, GOVT TOLD

Sat, 24 Feb 2018 09:59:46 +0000

By PRINCE CHIBAWAH

GOVERNMENT should put up deliberate measures to ensure that Ethiopian Airlines does not monopolise the local market once the Zambian Airways is actualised, says an independent business consultant

John Kasanga said that specific policy measures must be initiated to protect domestic players in the aviation industry.

Mr Kasanga said this on Thursday at a public discussion meeting held at Taj Pamodzi Hotel in Lusaka that was organised by the Economics Association of Zambia (EAZ).

Mr Kasanga explained that Ethiopian Airlines might use its links with Zambia to frustrate other players in an effort to monopolise the market.

“There is a risk that Ethiopian Airlines might use its links with Zambia to foment the dominant position against our competitors who are bringing traffic into Zambia, “Govt must guide against monopoly because once they (Ethiopian Airlines) clear others they can make adjustment to suite themselves,” said Mr Kasanga.

He said the coming of Zambian Airways should address the current high cost of flying.

Mr Kasanga also implored government to engage stakeholders throughout the implementation of the airline.

“Lessons must be learnt from the failed Zambia Airways if this project is to succeed.”

The Zambian government is currently in talks with Ethiopian Airlines to introduce a national airline that will be implemented under a joint venture with Zambia expected to hold 55 percent of the total shares.