This is the significance of the creation of a new leadership for the continent. It is headed by John Kelly, the new President of the British manufacturer for the Middle East, Turkey and Africa (META).
By Bernard Bangda
Rolls-Royce Plc announced in a statement on March 14 the appointment of John Kelly to the position of President META. A consecration for the former defense business engineer, who has been with the Group since 2001. But also, a responsibility to implement Rolls-Royce Plc’s strategy in Africa. This is particularly in the areas of civil aerospace, power systems and defense, through increased lobbying of governments and industry leaders. Six years as Vice President for Europe, the Middle East and Africa in the Civil Aerospace Division are an asset.
At the time of Kelly’s appointment, Rolls-Royce Civil Aerospace employed 150 people on the continent. It serves more than 20 African airlines in 15 countries and has a market share of more than 50% in powering the African widebody aircraft market, with engines installed on over 80 widebody aircraft in service. John Kelly is expected to complete the 30 outstanding orders. He is also expected to expand the portfolio of airlines the company supports. Since 2017, the company has “supported the inception of three new airlines” and “delivered over 30 new aircraft, with engines on more than 95 regional aircraft.”
« In Africa, we are interested in the long-haul market. Especially the Airbus A330neo, A350 and Boeing 787, » says Taieb Ben Sghaier
This is not enough for Rolls-Royce Plc. In an interview with Jeune Afrique in 2019, Taieb Ben Sghaier, Sales Director, Middle East and Africa, said “we are interested in the long-haul market ». The main targets are the Airbus A330neo, A350 and Boeing 787. « We have delivered 10 of them in the last three years. Over the next 20 years, 1,000 aircraft of all types will be delivered on the continent, of which 700 will be single-aisle and 300 wide-body, » explains Taieb Ben Sghaier.
Rolls-Royce develops and delivers power and propulsion solutions for safety-critical applications in the air, at sea and on land. The company employs over 150 people across Africa with an extensive reach across the region.
All this in a highly competitive environment, which is also attractive because almost virgin. Indeed, an article entitled Middle East and Africa Aircraft Engine Market- Growth, Trends, COVID-19 Impact and Forecasts (2023-2028)”, www.mordorintelligence.com reveals that “the MENA aircraft engine market is extremely consolidated, with only a few companies holding a major market share. These are Safran SA, General Electric Company, Rolls Royce Holding PLC and Pratt & Whitney.
« In defense, Rolls-Royce Defense innovates to meet operational requirements to protect, secure and explore”
The company is not only active in civil aerospace. Rolls-Royce Power Systems Africa provides world-class power solutions and complete life-cycle support. It supports power generation, marine, rail and industrial sectors, providing vital power solutions to datacenters, mining, oil and gas, shipping, locomotive and agriculture companies across the continent.
In defense, John Kelly’s area of expertise, Rolls-Royce Defence innovates power and propulsion solutions to meet operational requirements to protect, secure and explore. The company works closely with several African Governments, serving many defense forces.
