Zambia calls for enhanced aviation connectivity and capacity building as ICAO GISS 2026 concludes
Date: 2026-04-19
By: Robert Kwaku Annor
The
Zambia Civil Aviation Authority (ZCAA) has called for stronger aviation
connectivity and accelerated capacity building across Africa following the
conclusion of the ICAO Global Implementation Support Symposium (GISS) 2026.
Director
General Captain Derrick Luembe said the continent remains insufficiently
connected and stressed the need for increased investment in training,
partnerships, and knowledge exchange to support sustainable growth in the
aviation sector.
He
noted that engagements at the symposium play a critical role in strengthening
training frameworks and fostering the collaborations required to advance
Africa’s aviation industry.
Captain
Luembe also commended the Southern Africa Institute of Aviation Science and
Technology Limited for attaining Bronze Membership under the ICAO TRAINAIR PLUS
Programme, describing the achievement as a significant step toward improving
aviation training standards in Zambia.
At
the global level, the President of the ICAO Council, Toshiyuki Onuma, urged
stakeholders to translate commitments into measurable outcomes, emphasising
that the future of aviation depends on effective implementation, strong
partnerships, and sustained investment.
The
three-day symposium brought together more than 1,400 participants from over 100
countries and resulted in a range of commitments and initiatives aimed at
enhancing aviation safety, security, sustainability, and connectivity
worldwide.
The
event concluded with renewed focus on strengthening global aviation systems,
improving compliance with ICAO Standards and Recommended Practices, and
expanding cooperation to support the development of the next generation of
aviation professionals.
