Tanzania earned international recognition this week when Rosemary Kacungira, Founder and CEO of Equity Aviation, was honored at the 42nd Assembly of the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) in Montreal, Canada.

Kacungira was featured in a powerful visual tribute during the Assembly’s Opening Plenary, which highlighted women worldwide making significant contributions to aviation. She was recognized for her leadership as an entrepreneur and advocate, championing inclusive growth in the industry and creating pathways for young professionals especially women to thrive in a field long dominated by men.

The Tanzanian delegation to the Assembly included the Tanzania Civil Aviation Authority (TCAA) management team, led by Board Chairman Dr. Hamis Hassan Mwinyimvua and Director General Salim Msangi. Their presence reinforced Tanzania’s commitment to strengthening its role in global aviation and promoting gender inclusion as part of its strategic agenda.

The recognition of Kacungira placed Tanzania on the global stage, signaling the country’s growing role in advancing gender equality in aviation. For Tanzanians, her acknowledgment is not only a personal milestone but also a national achievement, reflecting a broader effort to empower women leaders in critical sectors.

ICAO’s tribute celebrated women from diverse backgrounds, including pilots, engineers, regulators, CEOs, and air navigation specialists, underscoring their resilience, excellence, and impact in shaping the future of global aviation. By recognizing achievements across regions, the Assembly reinforced that diversity and gender equality are essential to innovation and sustainability in the industry.

For Tanzania, the spotlight at ICAO reaffirmed the nation’s dedication to global representation, with TCAA leadership and professionals working alongside international partners to ensure women continue to take on transformative roles in aviation and beyond.