Strategic Aviation Services Presents Its Arise and Fly Vision at Inaugural Town Hall

ACCRA, Ghana — Strategic Aviation Services (SAS) hosted its Arise and Fly Town Hall on May 26, 2026, at the School of Public Health Auditorium of the University of Ghana, bringing together aviation professionals, students, development practitioners, and members of the public to discuss the role of General Aviation in socio-economic development.

The Town Hall formed part of SAS's broader Arise and Fly campaign, a five-year initiative aimed at advancing awareness, support, and investment for a proposed General Aviation Resource and Training Center for West Africa.

The event featured presentations and discussion led by aviation and development professionals, including SAS Founder and Executive Director Asiwome Dzakuma, retired United Airlines Captain David Morales, helicopter pilot Captain Nathaniel Kojo Anderson, and architect and aviator Charles Dzogbenuku.

Presenters examined how General Aviation can support national and community development through improved access to healthcare, emergency services, agriculture, tourism, education, workforce development, and regional connectivity. Discussions also explored the relationship between aviation and the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), highlighting opportunities for aviation to contribute to broader development outcomes.

A key theme of the Town Hall was the importance of aviation infrastructure in underserved and rural communities. Participants discussed the potential role of local airstrips and other aviation assets in improving access to essential services and strengthening economic opportunities across Ghana and the wider West African region.

The event also provided an opportunity for participants attending both in person and virtually to engage panelists through questions and discussion on the challenges, opportunities, and long-term potential of General Aviation as a development tool.

Through the Arise and Fly campaign, SAS seeks to promote greater understanding of General Aviation and its potential to support sustainable development while building momentum for initiatives that expand aviation access, education, and workforce development across West Africa.

The Town Hall is one of several engagement activities planned under the Arise and Fly campaign as SAS continues conversations with stakeholders, communities, institutions, and development partners on the future of General Aviation in the region.