Çelebi Aviation, which operates globally in ground handling and air cargo services, has completed a critical acquisition as part of its growth initiatives in Africa. The company officially entered the Kenyan market by acquiring 100 per cent of Transglobal Cargo Centre Ltd. (AFS) for a consideration of USD 40.1 million.
It was stated that the acquisition fully aligns with Çelebi Aviation’s international growth strategy and aims to create operational synergies among group companies. With this move, Kenya has been positioned as a strategic location within Çelebi’s long-term expansion plans across the African continent.
A Key Hub of East Africa: JKIA
AFS operates in the fields of ground handling, air cargo and warehouse management at Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (JKIA) in Nairobi, the capital of Kenya. It is noted that approximately 20 per cent of Kenya’s annual air cargo volume of around 400,000 tonnes is handled through this airport.
According to sector expectations, Kenya’s aviation market is forecast to grow at an average annual rate of 5 per cent over the next five years. This figure is above IATA’s global growth forecast of 3.3 per cent for aviation and air cargo.
“Kenya Is One of the Region’s Trade Gateways”
Çelebi Aviation Group CEO Dave Dorner emphasised Kenya’s regional importance in his assessment of the acquisition. Dorner used the following statements:
“Kenya is one of the key gateways for trade and cargo flows in East and Central Africa. By bringing AFS into the Çelebi family, we are strengthening our presence in this important market. Our goal is to combine AFS’s strong local expertise with Çelebi Aviation’s global experience and high operational standards, thereby contributing to Kenya’s vision of becoming a regional logistics hub.”
Operations to Continue Without Interruption
In a statement issued by the company, it was emphasised that AFS’s existing operational commitments and service levels will continue without interruption. It was also noted that any potential process and infrastructure changes will be carried out in full coordination with airline customers and local authorities.
With this acquisition, Nairobi has become a strategic hub within Çelebi Aviation’s global network, while the company has further strengthened its position in one of Africa’s most dynamic aviation and logistics markets.
