The Tanzania Civil Aviation Authority (TCAA) has conducted a training seminar for Members of Parliament from the Parliamentary Standing Committees on Public Accounts (PAC) and Subsidiary Legislation. The seminar aimed to enhance their understanding of the Authority’s regulatory and oversight responsibilities, as well as the implementation of various projects aimed at maintaining the safety of Tanzania’s airspace.

The session, held on February 13, 2025, at the Parliament in Dodoma, sought to provide MPs with insights into how TCAA ensures compliance with international aviation standards as set by the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO).

The seminar was led by the Vice Chairperson of the Public Accounts Committee, Hon. Japhet Hasunga, representing the chairpersons of both committees. Also in attendance were the Deputy Minister for Transport, Hon. David Kihenzile, and TCAA Director General, Mr. Salim Msangi, who, along with his team of experts, provided clarifications on various issues raised by the MPs.

Hon. Hasunga commended the President of the United Republic of Tanzania, H.E. Dr. Samia Suluhu Hassan, for her commitment to improving the aviation sector by allocating significant funds for key projects, including the construction of the state-of-the-art Civil Aviation Training Centre (CATC), which is expected to cost TZS 78 billion upon completion. He also praised the Deputy Minister for Transport, Hon. David Kihenzile, for ensuring the timely completion of projects and securing the necessary funding.

“Today, we have gained valuable insights into how the Authority oversees various service providers within the aviation industry. As parliamentary committees responsible for oversight, we have learned about the critical role of air traffic controllers, how pilots operate aircraft, and how communication between pilots and air traffic controllers ensures safety. We are satisfied with what we have learned,” said Hon. Hasunga.

In his closing remarks, Hon. Hasunga urged the government to continue allocating funds for ongoing TCAA projects to further enhance air safety and strengthen Tanzania’s position in the global aviation community.

On his part, Deputy Minister for Transport, Hon. David Kihenzile, expressed his gratitude to the MPs for dedicating their time to attend the training despite their tight parliamentary schedules. He assured them that the Ministry and its agencies would continue working closely with parliamentary committees to ensure the successful implementation of aviation projects.

Earlier, TCAA Director General, Mr. Salim Msangi, provided an overview of the Authority’s projects, strategies, and ongoing development initiatives, all aimed at ensuring the safety and security of Tanzania’s airspace both nationally and internationally.