Dar es Salaam, July 14, 2025

The Director General of the Tanzania Civil Aviation Authority (TCAA), Mr. Salim Msangi, has called on aviation stakeholders to intensify preparations for the upcoming International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) Universal Safety Oversight Audit Programme (USOAP) Continuous Monitoring Approach (CMA) audit, scheduled for April 8–21, 2026.

Speaking during a high-level preparatory meeting held today at TCAA Headquarters in Dar es Salaam, Mr. Msangi emphasized the significance of the audit, calling it not only a mandatory exercise but also an opportunity to reaffirm Tanzania’s capability to oversee the aviation industry and effective implementation of the Eight Critical Elements  of the Safety oversight  system.

“As a contracting state to ICAO, this audit is not optional — it is a sovereign obligation. But more importantly, it is a platform for us to showcase the progress and maturity of our aviation safety oversight system,” said Mr. Msangi.

 He reminded stakeholders that although Tanzania has previously undergone similar  audits — the last being in 2017 — the upcoming one will be a full-scope audit covering all areas related to aviation safety oversight.

“In the past, we prided ourselves on exceeding the global average. In 2017, we scored 67.3% while the global average was 60% at that time. However, the latest figures show that the global average has now risen to 75%. Our national goal is to surpass 85% , and achieving this requires enhanced collaboration and serious commitment from all of us,” he said.

Mr. Msangi further stressed that while the audit may seem far off, in reality, the timeline is very tight.

 “April 2026 may appear distant, but in terms of audit readiness, it is very near. We must start acting now,” he urged.

He also reminded stakeholders that success in the audit is not only beneficial to the regulator but reflects positively on the entire aviation sector.

“A good score for the State is a good score for the operators as well. It builds confidence and trust in our system — from international partners to passengers and investors,” he noted.

The USOAP-CMA audit evaluates a country’s capability in implementing effective safety oversight based on eight critical elements of the safety oversight system. The area to be audited will include legislation,  organization, personnel  licensing, operations of aircraft, airworthiness of aircraft,  accident investigation, air navigation services, aerodrome an ground aid and State Safety program.

The meeting brought together high-level representatives from airlines, airports, approved training Organization,  air navigation service providers, and other key aviation stakeholders — all of whom are expected to play a crucial role in Tanzania’s preparations.