Majaliwa unveils Tanzania’s aviation progress at Arusha summit

ARUSHA: AGAINST the backdrop of Tanzania’s vibrant tourism hub, over 300 of Africa’s and the world’s leading aviation minds – from top executives to influential policymakers and visionary innovators – have converged in Arusha for the 73rd Airports Council International (ACI) Africa Board Meeting, Regional Committee Meetings and Exhibitions.

Speaking yesterday at the opening of this high-profile forum in Arusha, Prime Minister Kassim Majaliwa outlined Tanzania’s significant advancements in the aviation sector, a critical engine for boosting tourism and fostering sustainable development.

PM Majaliwa expressed Tanzania’s deep honor in hosting such a distinguished gathering.

“Tanzania is deeply honored to host this highlevel forum, which brings together over 300 aviation leaders, policymakers and innovators from across Africa and beyond,” he stated, highlighting the event as “a valuable opportunity to shape the future of air transport and tourism on the continent.”

The Prime Minister emphasised that this year’s theme, “Navigating Towards a Greener Future: Harnessing Sustainable Aviation and Tourism for Economic Prosperity,” resonated deeply with Tanzania’s broader development goals, particularly its unwavering commitment to climate-resilient infrastructure and inclusive economic growth.

“As climate challenges intensify and environmental sustainability becomes increasingly critical, this theme emphasises our collective responsibility to create greener, more resilient air transport systems that support economic prosperity for all,” the Premier asserted.

PM Majaliwa commended President Samia Suluhu Hassan’s visionary and inclusive leadership, noting its significant role in elevating Tanzania’s international standing.

He highlighted the steady economic growth experienced under her stewardship, with annual tourist arrivals surpassing two million, supported by impactful initiatives such as The Royal Tour and strategic investments in transport infrastructure.

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Among the notable milestones, Mr Majaliwa underscored the transformative Julius Nyerere Hydropower Project (JNHPP), the extensive Standard Gauge Railway (SGR) network spanning over 2,100 kilometres and the significant upgrades to airport infrastructure, including the ongoing development of the Msalato International Airport.

He also unveiled ambitious plans for the Serengeti International Airport, a greenfield project meticulously designed to promote eco-tourism while ensuring the preservation of the delicate Serengeti ecosystem.

In the crucial domain of air navigation, PM Majaliwa announced that two major projects – Very High Frequency (VHF) Relay Stations and Digital Automatic Terminal Information Services (D-ATIS) – are nearing completion, poised to significantly improve real-time communication and enhance safety within Tanzania’s airspace.

Tanzania’s remarkable progress in aviation has garnered international acclaim. In 2023, the nation proudly ranked fourth in Africa for International Civil Aviation Organisation (ICAO) security compliance.

Furthermore, Julius Nyerere International Airport (JNIA) was honoured with the 2024 ACI Africa Safety Award for airports handling over 50,000 flight movements annually.

The national carrier, Air Tanzania Company Limited (ATCL), now boasts a modern fleet of 16 aircraft, operating over 120 weekly flights to more than 15 domestic destinations and a growing network of international locations, including Dubai, Mumbai, Guangzhou and Nairobi.

Ambitious expansion plans are underway for new routes connecting Tanzania to London, Lagos, Accra, Muscat and Juba