In Africa, where aviation can still feel distant or reserved for a privileged few, Daouda CISSE brings it closer to the people. As a content creator, he shares news, insights, and stories that make the skies more relatable. In this interview, we explore his journey, his passion, and how he’s using digital media to open up the world of aviation across the continent.
Can you introduce yourself to our readers and tell us how your passion for aviation was born?
My name is Daouda CISSE. I’m a communicator, content creator, and passionate about aviation and aeronautics. I’m also interested in other related sectors like transport, infrastructure, tourism, environment, and economy.
My passion for aviation started in childhood. I grew up in Dakar, in the Sicap Liberté neighborhood, not far from the former Léopold Sédar Senghor International Airport in Yoff. We often heard planes flying overhead—it became a part of our daily lives.
Let me share a little anecdote. As teenagers, we used to cross the highway—which is now the “VDN”—to sneak into the Sacré Cœur 3 extension area. We’d go into the fields, steal mangoes, pick bissap and gummies… Sometimes, we’d even climb over the airport’s perimeter wall just to grab some mangoes. We believed this myth: if you got caught by the “follow-me” cars—those yellow airport vehicles—we called them “YELLOW YELLOW CARS”—you’d either have to clean planes or be painted yellow as punishment. [laughs] Silly memories of youth! But while we were out there, we’d watch the planes, especially the ones from Air Afrique. That’s how the fascination began
What do you think makes aviation so captivating to tell through digital content? And how do you manage to popularize sometimes technical subjects?
Aviation is, above all, a passion. Without passion, you can’t do this kind of work well. The aviation world is fascinating—it brings together so many different jobs, cultures, and people. It transcends borders and makes the impossible feel possible. As they say, “Sky is no limit.”
Watching planes land and take off, being in that airport atmosphere—there’s nothing like it. That excitement drives me to research, investigate, and stay updated on the aviation sector, particularly in Africa. I do a lot of information monitoring and keep up with developments in the global industry as well.
In 2018, I launched a Facebook group called “Les Amoureux d’Aviation et d’Aéronautique”—the first interactive French-speaking platform of its kind, and today one of the most dynamic aviation communities online. It now has over 94,600 members from more than 110 nationalities. The group brings together enthusiasts, professionals, and curious minds to share news, insights, and discussions about the aviation and aeronautics world.
We manage it with strict standards and guidelines to ensure high-quality content and respectful interactions. Over time, it has become a true information hub. Many students working on dissertations have found valuable resources through the group. Some were even mentored or guided towards job opportunities thanks to the community.
How does your work help bring the general public closer to the aviation sector? Have you noticed any changes in how people perceive it, thanks to digital communication?
My goal is simply to share my passion and spread information about the aviation and aeronautics industry. By doing this, I help keep people informed about the latest news, and I hope to inspire future generations—especially young Africans who dream of careers in aviation.
In Africa, aviation is often seen as an exclusive or luxurious field, reserved for the wealthy or those with family connections. I want to challenge that perception. Aviation is just a mode of transport—though the safest one in the world—and everyone should feel they can be part of it.
That’s why I use digital platforms to share real-time updates and encouraging stories. I want to boost young people’s confidence and show them that with passion and determination, anything is possible.
I also strongly advocate for diversity and greater inclusion of women in strategic roles within the sector—whether as pilots, engineers, or executives. I’m a proud supporter of the “No Woman Left Behind” movement. Seeing African female pilots like Edith Mala Diop, Vanessa Umba (Qatar Airways), Amsa Guale (Ethiopian Airlines), Khady Djibril Ndiaye (Delta Airlines), and Matio Samake, an instructor pilot—it’s a real source of pride.
Tell us about an aviation-related project you’re particularly proud of. What makes it special to you?
The project I’m most proud of is definitely the Facebook Group: Les Passionnés d’Aviation et d’Aéronautique. Its international reputation today is a result of the incredible dedication of our admin team. I want to give special thanks to my tireless collaborator Edouard Moctar Anyim, whom I affectionately call the “Captain of the Enthusiasts.” His 360° vision helps keep the group running at full speed.
Any final words?
First, thank you for launching this platform and giving me the opportunity to share my story. I think your initiative is excellent.
To anyone reading: believe in yourself, in your skills and potential. Dare, innovate, and aim for excellence. The journey itself is the goal. Aviation is more than just a career—it’s a passion and a field full of opportunities waiting to be discovered.
