CAA Calls for Stronger Aviation Connectivity and Training in Africa
The Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) has called for strengthened aviation connectivity and accelerated capacity building across Africa following the conclusion of the ICAO Global Implementation Support Symposium 2026.
Speaking at the close of the three-day global gathering, CAA Director General Captain Derrick Luembe said Africa remains insufficiently connected and stressed the need for enhanced training, strategic partnerships, and knowledge exchange to support sustainable aviation development on the continent.
“Africa remains insufficiently connected, and engagements such as this are essential in strengthening our training frameworks and building the partnerships required for sustainable growth,” he said.
Captain Luembe also welcomed progress made by regional aviation training institutions, commending the Southern Africa Institute of Aviation Science and Technology Limited (SAIAST) for attaining Bronze Membership under the ICAO TRAINAIR PLUS Programme.
He described the achievement as an important milestone in strengthening aviation training standards in Zambia.
Meanwhile, International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) Council President Toshiyuki Onuma called for urgent global action to ensure that commitments made within the aviation sector are translated into measurable outcomes.
“The future of aviation depends on effective implementation, strong partnerships, and sustained investment that delivers tangible results,” he said.
The symposium, which brought together 1,450 participants from 101 States, focused on strengthening global aviation systems with an emphasis on safety, security, sustainability, and improved connectivity.
Delegates also explored mechanisms to ensure effective implementation of ICAO Standards and Recommended Practices (SARPs) across member states.
Over the course of the event, participants agreed on a series of commitments, partnerships, and implementation initiatives aimed at enhancing global aviation performance and expanding cooperation in training and capacity development for the next generation of aviation professionals.
The symposium concluded with renewed international commitment to improving aviation safety, strengthening institutional capacity, and advancing global connectivity through sustained collaboration.
