The Book of the Prophet Ezra, Chapter 3: While the younger people shouted for joy when they saw the foundation of the new temple (Zerubbabel’s temple – in 536 BC), MANY OF THE ELDERS who had seen the former temple (Solomon’s glorious temple, destroyed in 587 BC by the Babylonians) WEPT ALOUD. AND THE SOUND WAS HEARD FAR AWAY…

BUT SERIOUSLY: When talk of resuscitating Uganda Airlines started doing the rounds, in the cynicism that followed, I argued that we were missing the bigger picture. The tides of change and opportunity are blowing across Africa. And nobody can stop them. Not even our grandstanding stone cold loser-politicians.

To put this in proper perspective, consider this: Africa’s purchasing power ten years ago was USD 500 billion. Today, it stands at USD 8.2 trillion. In one decade, Africa’s effective demand has grown 16 times. So much for all that is going wrong.

Consider this also: According to the International Air Transport Association, an Open Skies policy between just 12 African states would create 5 million new passengers for an airline group, generate USD 1.3 billion and create 155,000 jobs.

And did you know that in 1998, African policy-makers laid down the so-called Yamoussoukro Decision, which aimed to tear down restrictions on airline operations and create a single air transport market across Africa. It was signed by 44 member states of the African Union. Its implementation is still pending. While African governments are squabbling and locking themselves out from each other’s airspaces, 80 per cent of African air traffic is still carried by non-African lines!

So for today, I celebrate with the rejoicing millennials who never saw the glory and splendor of the original copy;-) This Lazarus is back from the tomb, with some fresh clothes on. And we are giving him something to feed on. It’s a new day!