TCAA tasked to strengthen collaboration with stakeholders

THE Tanzania Civil Avia- tion Authority (TCAA) has been urged to strengthen col- laboration with stakeholders in the aviation sector to foster healthy competition and im- prove overall performance in the country’s airspace management.

The call was made by Treasury Registrar Mr Nehe- miah Mchechu during the sec- ond meeting of TCAA’s Workers Council in Dodoma.

He also stressed the importance of good governance in driving reforms within the sector.

“For the government to succeed in the reforms, good governance is essential,” Mr Mchechu said adding that reforms are designed to create opportunities for hardworking and committed individuals.

“We, who have been entrusted with overseeing public institutions and implementing reforms, must not disappoint President Samia Suluhu Hassan. We remain committed to advancing these reforms.”

Mr Mchechu commended TCAA for organising the workers council meeting, describing it as a crucial platform for pro- moting workplace efficiency and productivity.

He said that the council plays an important role in strengthening workplace democracy and ensuring inclu- sive decision-making.

“The tradition of workers council meetings, which dates back to the 1970s, is still highly relevant today. Without such forums, decision-making would rest solely with management, which is not ideal,” he noted.

TCAA Director General Mr Salim Msangi said that the authority has set an ambitious revenue target of 110bn/- for the 2024/2025 financial year.

These funds are expected to be generated from internal sources, including navigation and air traffic management services.

“These resources will be allocated to strategic initiatives, such as enhancing air traffic control systems, upgrading navigation equipment at airports and control centres and reviewing sectoral regulations to uphold the safety and integ- rity of Tanzania’s airspace,” he explained.

Mr Msangi further revealed that TCAA is investing in digital systems to streamline regulatory operations and revenue collection.

The authority is also conducting research to identify investment opportunities in the aviation sector to attract global players.

TCAA has allocated 5.8bn/- to support the ongoing construction of a new aviation training college.

This project is vital for producing the next generation of aviation profes- sionals.

“The construction of the new facility is a top priority and is expected to commence in June this year,” said Mr Msangi.

He added that the current infrastructure at the Civil Aviation Training Centre (CATC) is outdated and does not meet modern training demands.

Mr Msangi pointed out significant improvements in Tanzania’s safety oversight capabilities, with the International Civil Aviation Organisation (ICAO) rating rising from 37.8 per cent in 2013 to 67.3 per cent currently.

Another ICAO audit is expected soon and the coun- try anticipates positive results.

In aviation security, Tanzania ranked fourth in Africa following a May 2023 audit by ICAO, scoring 86.98 per cent.

This achievement reflects growing confidence in the country’s aviation safety standards, which have also contributed to the increase in tourism.

“Improved airport infra- structure and air traffic systems have contributed to a steady increase in both flights and passenger numbers,” Mr Msangi stated.

“In 2022, post- Covid, we recorded 5,976,493 passengers. We expect this number to exceed 7 million by the end of this year.”

He stressed the country’s resilience and preparedness, noting the absence of terror- related incidents in the aviation sector as a testament to TCAA’s effective safety over- sight.

Despite these successes, Mr Msangi acknowledged challenges, including a short- age of skilled aviation professionals and the high cost of training due to the need to meet international standards. Most aviation training is con- ducted abroad, which places a strain on the authority’s budget.

“We appeal for support, including potential scholarships and partnerships with international institutions, to help build the capacity of our workforce,” he added.