Transport Minister Unveils New Civil Aviation Authority Board Ahead of 2026 ICAO Audit
Minister of Transport and Logistics, Honourable Frank Museba Tayali, has announced the appointment of a new Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) Board of Directors, tasking it with strengthening aviation security, regulatory efficiency and institutional reform as Zambia prepares for a critical International Civil Aviation Organisation (ICAO) Security Audit in 2026.
Unveiling the new Board, Honourable Tayali said the members assume office at a time when expectations are high and the aviation operating environment is rapidly evolving both regionally and globally.
The Minister stressed that the upcoming ICAO audit is not merely a technical requirement, but a matter of national credibility, international confidence and long-term sustainability of Zambia’s aviation sector.
“A favourable audit outcome directly affects airline operations, bilateral air service agreements, insurance costs and investor confidence,” Honourable Tayali said.
He outlined key expectations for the Board, including firm oversight of aviation security compliance, adequate resourcing and capacity building, strengthened coordination among aviation security stakeholders, and close monitoring of corrective actions arising from previous audits and assessments.
In line with Government’s drive to grow aviation cargo as a catalyst for exports, value chains and foreign exchange earnings, the Minister said the Board must ensure that CAA regulations actively support air cargo growth and that licensing, certification and approval processes are efficient and predictable.
Honourable Tayali further urged the Board to prioritise the full implementation of economic regulations, the establishment of a fully-fledged flying school with at least one training aircraft, the digitalisation of CAA operations—particularly licensing and certification processes—the construction of an Aviation House, and the institutionalisation of leadership development and skills transfer.
He congratulated the Chairperson and Board Members, stating that their appointment reflects Government’s confidence in their professional competence, integrity and ability to provide strategic leadership to one of the country’s most critical sectors.
The newly appointed Board Members are:
- Captain Gabriel Chileshe Kunda – Chairperson
- Major General Henry Chiwaya – Deputy Chairperson
- Mr Paul Mulola – Member
- Ms Lungowe Linyama – Member
- Ms Sharon Mofya – Member
- Ms Brenda Mwelwa – Member
- Eng. Stephen Sondashi – Member
Speaking on behalf of the Board, Chairperson Captain Gabriel Kunda said he was deeply honoured and grateful to the Government of the Republic of Zambia, and particularly to the Minister of Transport and Logistics, for the confidence placed in him and his colleagues.
He said the Board accepts the responsibility with humility, a strong sense of duty and an unwavering commitment to serve the nation with integrity and diligence.
Captain Kunda outlined three priority areas for the Board over the next three years: strengthening safety and security oversight systems, promoting institutional excellence and good governance, and enabling growth and innovation within the aviation sector.
He added that these pillars would be underpinned by a firm commitment to customer service, stakeholder engagement, accountability and the national interest.
The new CAA Board will serve a three-year term from December 2025 to December 2028.
