By JUDITH NAMUTOWE –
THE implementation of the four-year European Union (EU) supported project to improve Zambia’s aviation sector has commenced.
This follows the signing of a grant of €5.6 million to support the aviation sector in the country by both the Zambian Government and the EU signed in 2016.
Out of the allocated grant, €1.8 million has been used to improve services at the Civil Aviation Authority (CAA).
CAA general manager, Gabriel Lesa said the implementation process which started this year would be concluded in 2021.
Mr Lesa said the project aims at facilitating improvements to the institutional and regulatory framework in ensuring conformity with the operational requirements of the International Civil Aviation Organisation.
He said in an interview that this was a milestone for the country which was growing in a stronger and more resilient authority.
Mr Lesa said in terms of safety, CAA would ensure the aviation services were much safer and more secure.
“The implementation process came about after a successful gap analysis which was undertaken in December last year. With the implementation of this project, the country’s aviation sector is much safer and more secure as CAA would firm up on its regulatory products and capacities with the re-introduction of the national airline,” he said.
Mr. Lesa further said CAA was drafting the National Action Plan which is expected to be completed by mid this year.
He said the draft would be presented to stakeholders for review and possible adjustments if need be.
“It is expected that the draft will promote more activities in the industry and contribute to the country’s economic development,” he said.