RwandAir, the national carrier of Rwanda, anticipates Qatar Airways finalizing a major stake purchase “as early as next month,” according to CEO Yvonne Makolo in an interview with the Financial Times.
Talks between the two airlines have been ongoing for nearly five years, with the deal expected to grant Qatar Airways a 49% ownership stake in RwandAir for an undisclosed amount.
Both RwandAir and Qatar Airways haven’t responded to requests for comment outside of business hours.
This news follows earlier statements from Qatar Airways CEO Badr Mohammed Al Meer, who hinted at an upcoming investment in a southern African airline earlier this year. The Qatari carrier already has a strong presence in Africa, having acquired a 60% stake in a new Rwandan international airport project valued at $1.3 billion in 2019. Additionally, Qatar Airways maintains code-sharing agreements with several African airlines, including RwandAir.
