Changes in shareholding of Lanseria International Airport to boost capital projects
Lanseria International Airport is embarking on a new chapter of growth following significant changes in its shareholding structure – setting the scene for its vision of becoming the “gateway to Africa”.
While recent shareholding structures will not affect “business as usual” at Lanseria International Airport, they will provide a boost to new capital projects that are being planned in the near future.
Rampa Rammopo explains that increases in shareholding are good news for the airport. “This year, the ownership landscape shifted with the conclusion of the PIC’s empowerment facilitation. As a result, the Government Employees Pension Fund (GEPF) increased its shareholding in Lanseria: a clear signal of its confidence in our airport’s potential for growth and operational excellence.”
He notes that simultaneously the Pan African Infrastructure Development Fund (PAIDF) also restructured its investments, transferring its stake in the airport to Harith Infraco Limited, a newly formed entity. “These developments highlight a strategic realignment among key stakeholders to optimize investment structures and maximize economic benefits.”
This realignment is the first significant change since 2013 when the Public Investment Corporation (PIC), acting on behalf of the GEPF, and the PAIDF (managed by Harith General Partners), and an empowerment consortium led by Nozala Investments acquired the airport. “This investment was facilitated by the PIC to support the empowerment consortium’s participation, reflecting their commitment to inclusive economic development.”
The restructured ownership structure is set to unlock continued capital for critical infrastructure projects aimed at transforming the airport into a regional and global aviation hub. “Projects our stakeholders can already look forward to are the development of a massive cargo precinct that will ensure LIA’s cargo handling operations are world-class. The new precinct will also increase efficiency and reliability, attracting international trade and logistics partners while enhancing Lanseria’s competitiveness on the global stage.”
Plans are also underway to establish a state-of-the-art Maintenance, Repair and Overhaul (MRO) facility. “This facility will serve a wide range of aircraft types, positioning Lanseria as a key player in aircraft maintenance services across the continent. By catering for diverse fleets, we will be able to strengthen partnerships with commercial airlines and expand our operational capacity,” Rammopo notes.
He adds that the Fixed Base Operations (FBO) will also be enhanced. “Our intention is to offer seamless services for private and commercial aviation customers, leveraging our deep groundcrew expertise and reinforcing our reputation for excellence.”
As to the airport’s vision of long-term growth and sustainability, Lanseria has set its sights on regional expansion through acquiring and managing additional airports across Africa. “This speaks to our ambition to elevate customer service standards and contribute to the growth of aviation infrastructure across the continent.”
