The Tanzania Civil Aviation Authority (TCAA) has raised concerns over the misuse of drones, warning that unauthorized usage poses a threat to the country’s airspace safety.

Speaking while handing over various donations to Karanga Central Prison in Moshi, Kilimanjaro, on February 17, 2025, TCAA Director General Salim Msangi emphasized the importance of drone technology but noted that some individuals, including journalists, have been using it irresponsibly and in violation of regulations.

Msangi cautioned all drone operators to strictly adhere to legal requirements, including obtaining permits for importation, registration, and usage. He stressed that violators would face legal action.

“Drone technology is highly beneficial and supports various sectors, but recently, we have witnessed misuse by certain individuals, including journalists,” Msangi stated.

“We have regulations governing this area. Before importing a drone, one must obtain a permit because it is an aircraft using our airspace. It must also be registered, just like any other aircraft, and a usage permit must be secured before operating it,” he added.

He further clarified that areas such as prisons and military zones are strictly off-limits for drone operations, and anyone caught violating this regulation will face prosecution.

“We must comply with the law to avoid unnecessary trouble. Drones have become an essential technology, supporting development activities, which is why we, as the regulatory authority, have put in place laws to manage their use. We have established guidelines to ensure their safe operation without endangering other aircraft in the airspace.” he said.

He emphasized the potential risks drones pose to commercial aviation, warning:

“We wouldn’t want a drone to cause an accident involving a passenger aircraft carrying 280 to 400 people. None of us would wish for that. Therefore, we have put measures in place to ensure drones are imported, registered, and operated in a controlled manner.”

Speaking on TCAA’s humanitarian efforts, Msangi stated that the authority had donated essential supplies to assist prisoners and detainees at Karanga Central Prison, acknowledging their basic needs.

“As the Civil Aviation Authority, we decided to meet with the management of Karanga Central Prison to offer humanitarian support to our fellow citizens here. Today, we have provided these small items, but we hope to do more in the future. These individuals did not wish to be here, but circumstances have placed them in this situation. By assisting them, we may help in their rehabilitation and reintegration into society,” Msangi said.

He called on both government and private institutions to recognize the importance of supporting prisoners and detainees, as the government alone cannot meet all their needs.

Kilimanjaro Regional Prisons Commander, SACP Leonard Burushi, expressed gratitude to TCAA for their donations and urged other stakeholders to step forward and assist in meeting the needs of those under their care.

“We are very grateful to TCAA for visiting us today and for the support they have provided. These supplies will greatly help, as there are many pressing needs within the prison,” SACP Burushi stated.

He also encouraged individuals and organizations with the means to contribute items such as mattresses, blankets, shoes, soap, and medicine to help improve the living conditions of prisoners.

The donations provided by TCAA included sanitary pads, soap, toothbrushes, toothpaste, and other essential items.