Kenya Airways is set to resume direct flights to Luanda, Angola, starting March 2025, marking a significant milestone in Kenya-Angola relations.
President William Ruto made the announcement on Wednesday, January 8, following talks with Angolan President João Lourenço in Luanda. He emphasized the importance of the agreement in strengthening bilateral ties.
“We welcome Angola’s decision to work with Kenya in facilitating the resumption of Kenya Airways’ direct flights to Luanda from March. Coupled with the reciprocal waiver of visa requirements for Kenyans, this will strengthen bilateral ties and expand opportunities for enhanced cooperation and mutual benefits,” President Ruto stated.
The reciprocal visa waiver is seen as a diplomatic breakthrough, enabling citizens of both countries to travel freely.
In their discussions, the two leaders also addressed continental issues, including support for Raila Odinga’s candidacy for the African Union Commission chairmanship. President Ruto disclosed, “We also discussed Raila Odinga’s candidacy for the African Union Commission chairmanship.”
Other key topics included peace in the Great Lakes region and reforms within the African Union (AU). Ruto, who is leading AU reform efforts, invited President Lourenço to a retreat in Kenya later this month to prepare for the AU Heads of State Summit in February.
Regarding the Luanda Process for Peace in the Eastern Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), the leaders underscored the need for a joint meeting between the Southern African Development Community (SADC) and the East African Community (EAC) to enhance the initiative.
“Peace and security in our continent is of paramount importance to us all, and we are keen to have a process that incorporates all stakeholders to ensure its success,” Ruto explained.
This announcement follows Kenya Airways’ December 2024 statement on direct flights to London’s Gatwick Airport. The national carrier will begin operating three weekly nighttime flights from Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (JKIA) to Gatwick starting July 2, 2025.
The Gatwick service, operating on Wednesdays, Fridays, and Sundays, will complement Kenya Airways’ daily flights to Heathrow. CEO Allan Kilavuka expressed optimism, stating:
“The United Kingdom is essential and strategic for Kenya Airways and Kenya. It provides a gateway for trade, tourism, education, business, leisure travel, and diaspora connections. Adding Gatwick Airport to our network gives KQ guests more options and a convenient schedule that suits their travel preferences.”
The resumption of Luanda flights and the expansion to Gatwick signal Kenya Airways’ commitment to enhancing connectivity and fostering international partnerships.
