Malawi’s aviation sector is expected to benefit from strengthened technical cooperation with the International Civil Aviation Organisation (Icao) as a high-level delegation engages local stakeholders on safety, security, regulatory oversight and infrastructure development.
The four-day mission by Icao’s Eastern and Southern African (Esaf) office aims to assess the country’s aviation environment, identify institutional and technical gaps and determine priority areas for support to improve compliance with international standards.
The delegation met the Civil Aviation Authority of Malawi (CAA) on Tuesday before visiting Kamuzu International Airport (KIA) yesterday, where it engaged management of Airports Development Limited (ADL) and other stakeholders.
CAA board vice-chairperson Bertha Bangara Chikadza said aviation safety and security are fundamental to public confidence, international connectivity and economic development.
“We look to Icao for technical expertise, professional mentorship and sustained cooperation to strengthen our institutions,” she said.
Icao regional director for Eastern and Southern Africa, Lucy Mbungua said the mission will help the organisation understand Malawi’s operational challenges and determine how best to provide targeted technical support.
“We want to see Malawi among the leading countries in the region in meeting international standards for aviation safety, security, infrastructure and personnel,” she said.
CAA director general Alfred Mtilatila welcomed the engagement, describing it as an opportunity for the authority to benefit from Icao’s expertise.
The delegation is also expected to meet Minister of Transport and Public Works Jappie Mhango and Minister of Homeland Security Peter Mukhito to discuss policy, legal, institutional and resource requirements affecting aviation operations and security.
