Zambia lands Euro 6m for aviation sector  

Wed, 23 Nov 2016 12:04:27 +0000

A GRANT worth Euro 5.6 million to support the aviation sector in Zambia has been signed by Government and the European Union (EU).

This is under the Aviation Sector Support Programme II (ASSPII).

The programme aims at facilitating improvements to the institutional and regulatory framework in ensuring conformity with the operational requirements of the International Civil Aviation Organisation (ICAO).

Head of EU mission to Zambia, Alessandro Mariani said at a signing ceremony that the development of the aviation sector in Zambia continued to play a critical role in enhancing its connectivity within Zambia.

Ambassador Mariani said a safe and reliable network was essential to support many key economic sectors.

“Available statistics and trends suggest that we should expect the aviation sector in Zambia to continue to grow and contribute towards inclusive economic growth over the coming years,” he said.

He explained that it was therefore important for Zambia authorities to adequately organise and capacitate to comply fully with requirements.

The ambassador also said the removal of Zambia in June this year from the EU safety list had yield in travellers to have confidence in using the air flights.

“..Zambian registered air carriers can from now onwards operate in EU skies. And as a result of this long awaited achievement, Zambian and EU citizens and economies are brought closer together,” he said.

And secretary to the treasury, Fredson Yamba said the aviation sector in Zambia was promising with immense potential for exponential growth to create jobs in the economy.

Mr Yamba said the industry was able to support other economic industries if managed proficiently.

He explained that 6 institutions would receive support in various areas under the ASSP II.

“Among such institutions are, the ministry of transports and communication, the Civil Aviation Authority, the Zambia Airport Corporation Limited,

“The Zambia Air Services Training Institute and deserving private aviation actors will also be assisted in acquiring essential skills in modern aviation management,” he said.

Aviation Sector Support Programme I (ASSP I) assisted support Zambia to address the legislative gaps which existed the aviation legal system.