Aviation

AMENA Aviation

The AMENA Aviation Board brings together leading and seasoned sector professionals in Africa’s aviation industry. The purpose of this Board is to address unique challenges within this industry that are born of dated operational and managerial strategies, with homegrown solutions. The Board is a consolidated effort to support players interested in, or operating within the African aviation industry to optimise their operations.

Discover More

About AMENA Aviation

AMENA Aviation is a dynamic team of air transport experts with a rich reservoir of experience in delivering comprehensive solutions across various facets of the aviation industry. Our experts bring a wealth of industry-specific knowledge and hands-on experience, contributing to civil aviation policy development, licensing, economic regulation, airport and air traffic control access and pricing, government negotiations, competition policy, and consumer and environmental issues. 

In the realm of civil aviation, our team’s proficiency extends to financial modelling, network and route planning, restructuring of airlines, and supporting public sector airport development projects. This multifaceted expertise positions AMENA Aviation as a trusted partner in navigating the complex landscape of aviation policy, ensuring compliance, and driving strategic initiatives that foster growth and sustainability in the sector. 

Our commitment to excellence is further underscored by our Air Traffic Management (ATM) expert, boasting an impressive 30-year track record in the industry. With experience spanning Africa, the UAE, and Europe, this seasoned professional has held operational and management roles, specialising in areas such as Risk Management, Air Safety, Recovery Planning, and Business Continuity. This wealth of knowledge contributes to the optimisation and efficiency of air traffic systems, ensuring safety and reliability in the skies. 

On the financial front, our team is fortified by an expert with over 18 years of experience in Central Banking, Private Equity, and Corporate & Investment Banking. Their proficiency in financial modelling and analysis, money and capital markets, due diligence, valuation, research, project finance, and investment structuring adds a crucial dimension to our capabilities. This financial acumen is instrumental in shaping sustainable financial strategies for aviation projects, aligning them with broader economic goals. 

Notably, AMENA Aviation’s consultants have actively contributed to impactful projects, exemplified by their support to the Common Market for Eastern and Southern Africa (COMESA) in operationalising the Support to Air Transport Sector Development. Engagements also include baseline studies on the liberalisation of air transport, showcasing our commitment to advancing the aviation sector through informed research, strategic planning, and hands-on implementation. 

In essence, AMENA Aviation stands as a beacon of expertise, bringing together a team that not only understands the intricacies of the aviation industry but also possesses the practical know-how to address its multifaceted challenges. With a commitment to excellence, innovation, and sustainability, we are poised to continue making significant contributions to the evolution of air transport across Africa, the Middle East, and North America. 

AMENA Aviation Board and Its Mandate

The AMENA Aviation Advisory Board is a collective force of professionals dedicated to shaping the future of the aviation sector in Africa. Comprising experts with diverse backgrounds and extensive industry experience, the board is committed to steering AMENA Aviation towards innovation, growth, and sustainability. 

At the core of the board’s mandate lies a commitment to excellence, collaboration, and strategic foresight. Led by Prof. Dr. Eyden Samunderu, the Managing Partner and a trusted senior strategic advisor, the board plays a pivotal role in shaping the strategic direction of AMENA Aviation. Their collective expertise in business planning, market analysis, and commercial awareness forms the foundation for the company’s growth initiatives. 

Omoh Anna Ohiomoba contributes over 15 years of business operations experience spanning Africa, Europe, and North America. Her focus on strategic planning and airport operations ensures efficiency, safety, and revenue growth. Simon Peter Njoroge, as the Airport Operations Manager at Jomo Kenyatta International Airport, provides firsthand insights into the complexities of airport operations, contributing to a nuanced understanding of the global aviation landscape. 

Winnet Muchanyuka, a seasoned airline executive, plays a pivotal role in advocating for the industry fostering positive relations with stakeholders in the public and private sectors. Dr Timo Wiggemann, an internationally recognised business leader, brings a global perspective to the board. His expertise in manufacturing, automotive, pharmaceuticals, and clean energy equips AMENA Aviation with the insights needed to navigate the complexities of a diverse and evolving market. 

The board envisions a future where the aviation sector in Africa is not only resilient but also a driver of economic and social development. By leveraging the diverse skills and experiences of its members, the board aims to contribute to sustainable growth, technological innovation, and the establishment of robust partnerships within the aviation industry. 

In summary, the AMENA Aviation Board is more than an assembly of experts; it is a dynamic force united by a common purpose — to improve the aviation sector. Through strategic planning, operational expertise, and a commitment to excellence, the board is positioned to make a lasting impact on the aviation landscape, fostering a legacy of growth, connectivity, and progress. 

Advisory Board Members

Prof. Dr. Eyden Samunderu

Managing Partner

The service offerings of AMENA Aviation are built around Eyden, a  seasoned leading expert and most trusted senior strategic advisor in the aviation sector.

He is a dynamic self-starter with strong strategic and business planning skills. His first class leadership, mentor and managerial skills are capsuled by a strong business analytical acumen and commercial awarness of the African aviation market.

Omoh Anna Ohiomoba

Advisory Board Member

Omoh has 15 years of business operations experience working in Africa, Europe and North America. She has experience in airport operations and management focusing on strategic planning to deliver revenue growth and support major capital investments. While working as a manager with Airports Council International (Africa Region) she supported economic and market research, airport training, marketing, business development and government relations leading to growth and development in the African aviation industry.

Simon Peter Njoroge

Advisory Board Member

Simon Peter currently serves as the Airport Operations Manager at the Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (JKIA) in Nairobi, Kenya. He has extensive experience in multiple cultures with more than 20 years of industry experience in Africa and Europe. He holds an MBA from Strathmore Business School.

Winnet Muchanyuka

Advisory Board Member

Winnet is a seasoned airline executive with 30 years of experience working in the commercial & airport operations space. She has extensive experience in commercial activities. Her experience has also exposed her to advocacy and stakeholder relations with public and private sector bodies. 

She also sits on the IATA Local Carrier Advisory Group, Board of Airline Representatives and Tourism Business Council of Zimbabwe.

Dr. Timo Wiggemann

Advisory Board Member

Timo is an internationally recognised business leader with an extensive track record and experience working with clients having a challenging starting point. He is specialised in manufacturing, automotive, heavy machinery & equipment, pharmaceuticals and clean energy. His profound business acumen, financial insights, and extensive international experiences (Europe, U.S., Asia, China, India) combined with his cultural background in the Western and Asian economies allows him to show outstanding delivery performance in serving clients globally. 

Senior Consultants

Dr. Joachim Vermooten

Senior Consultant

Joachim is an experienced senior international aviation consultant, qualified as a chartered accountant CA (SA) registered auditor (IRBA), transport economist (specializing in aviation) and aviation researcher, which follows on a successful career as managing director and chief executive. He has a broad range of industry exposure including electricity, airlines, financial services (assurance), manufacturing, engineering and steel production. Joachim is a former university lecturer in aviation, taxation and financial management.

Emmy Arsonval Maniriho

Senior Consultant

Emmy currently serves as an advisor to the Vice Chancellor of the University of Rwanda and has worked as Air Transport Intern in ICAO Air Transport Bureau (ATB) in its Economic Regulatory Framework Section (ERF) and worked closely with Aviation Data and Analysis Section (ADA). He has published several books regarding Aviation engineering, Human factors in Aviation, Airport planning and Air Traffic Control. He thus has broad knowledge and experience in international air transport, management, tourism and hospitality industry. In addition, he trains and educates aviation aspirants and public servants in Strategic Management.

Janet Cloete

Senior Consultant

”Because airlines play a pivotal role in economies through trade and commerce, aviation is crucial to Africa’s economic recovery, being part of a team that can contribute towards this vision of a sustainable, world-class African aviation sector is my passion.”

John van Hoogstraaten

Senior Consultant

John has over 30 years of Air Traffic Management (ATM) experience across the full spectrum of operations, management, safety and regulatory compliance. He is an experienced aviation consultant specialising in aviation support to airports, airport developers and air navigation service providers to help achieve regulatory compliance and implementation of future systems. Change Management is in line with ICAO Standards and Recommended Practices (SARPs), national aviation regulatory requirements and international best practice. In addition to his ATM experience, John brings a wealth of knowledge in emergency planning through his accreditation with the Business Continuity Institute and the International Institute of Risk and Safety Management.

Dr. Barry Humphreys CBE

Senior Consultant

Barry is a distinguished aviation expert whose illustrious career has left an indelible mark on the industry. With a Ph.D. in Air Transport Economics, he began his journey at the UK Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) in 1973 and later served British Caledonian Airways before returning to the CAA as Head of Air Services Policy. In 1995, Barry joined Virgin Atlantic Airways, where he played a pivotal role in various aspects of aviation, from policy and regulation to route development and environmental concerns. His expertise extends to finance, law, and security, and he has shared his knowledge through academic contributions, including a book on economic regulation in the air transport industry. Today, he continues to shape the industry’s future as the Chairman of Hans Airways.

Sambulo Matema

Senior Consultant

Sambulo is a distinguished aerospace engineer with a profound understanding of the African aviation sector. As a lead expert in his field, Sambulo brings a wealth of knowledge and expertise to the aerospace industry.

His key areas of specialization encompass maintenance planning and modeling, network planning and optimization, and the application of Knowledge-Based Engineering techniques to automate and integrate maintenance and operational data systems. 

With a strong commitment to advancing aviation in Africa, Sambulo continues to play a pivotal role in shaping the industry’s future. His dedication to excellence and innovation is evident in his contributions to the field, making him a prominent figure in African aviation.

Yvonne Murahwa

Senior Consultant

Yvonne is a highly analytical and results-driven financial markets specialist, boasting an impressive track record of over 18 years in Central Banking, Private Equity, and Corporate & Investment Banking. Her expertise spans a wide range of critical financial disciplines, firmly establishing her as a distinguished professional in the field.

With a keen eye for detail and a penchant for excellence, Yvonne possesses exceptional skills in Financial Modeling and Analysis, Money and Capital Markets, Due Diligence, Valuation, Research, Project Finance, and Investment Structuring. Her proficiency in these areas underscores her ability to navigate complex financial landscapes and deliver comprehensive, data-driven insights and solutions.​​​​​​

Dr. Bedan Thendu

Senior Consultant

Bedan is an aviation strategist who has served African States successfully in the implementation of ICAO Standards and Recommended Practices, the operation of air transportation, and the delivery of training. A multi-accredited trainer with ICAO and IATA, he was previously the Kenya Civil Aviation Authority’s Chief Lecturer in Air Traffic Management.

Bedan possesses a solid educational background in air traffic control, safety management, quality auditing, strategic management, and project management, as well as being a certified ATM inspector. His qualifications include all five Air Traffic Control ratings, the experience of overseeing air traffic control operations at multiple domestic and international airports.

Gavin Eccles

Senior Consultant

With over 30 years of experience in aviation, airports, and tourism development, Gavin has worked globally to establish connections between aviation and tourism development. He has been affiliated with various airlines, airports, and tourism boards. Previous roles include positions at British Airways and consultancy projects for United Airlines, American Airlines, Qantas, and support for the development of low-cost airlines like Ryanair and easyJet to tourist destinations. Gavin has served on the board of SATA International, a European airline, as CCO, and advised the Board of Visit Portugal on air services development. As a Professor, Gavin consistently contributes white papers, articles, and book chapters focusing on a new vision for the sector.

Anita Yordanova

Analyst

Anita is a dynamic and collaborative problem solver with experience in accounting and law. Her experience has provided opportunities to develop into a highly organized, detail-oriented, and self-motivated individual.

Anita took up a Master of Business Administration in International Business, a Master of Law, and a Bachelor’s degree in International Economic Relations. 

Her passion for international business and economics is what drives Anita to dive into the opportunities on the African continent. Africa is the fastest growing continent, which has unlocked opportunities for international business and economics. Africa could grab your sight and charm your heart.

Subscribe to our newsletter today!