Delegates from the aviation sector at the 2025 Annual Aviation Stakeholders’ meeting in Lusaka. – Pix by the Ministry of Transport and Logistics Media Unit.
Ministry of Transport and Logistics Permanent Secretary Frederick Mwalusaka (left) being welcomed by Civil Aviation Authority director general Captain Derrick Luembe at the 2025 Annual Aviation Stakeholders' meeting. - Pix by the Ministry of Transport and Logistics Media Unit.
November 25, 2025 — Lusaka
Zambia’s aviation sector has entered a new phase of renewal, expansion, and technological transformation, as highlighted today during the 2025 Annual Aviation Stakeholders’ Meeting held in Lusaka.
Speaking on behalf of Transport and Logistics Minister Frank Tayali, Ministry Permanent Secretary Frederick Mwalusaka said the Government is redefining Zambia’s aviation landscape to transform its landlocked position into a regional advantage.
He said the sector is now guided by the Eighth National Development Plan (8NDP) and the broader national vision of making Zambia a transport and logistics hub for Southern Africa.
“For too long our geography was seen as a limitation. Today, we are flipping that narrative. Zambia is linked, connected, and strategically positioned in the region,” he said.
Progress in 2025: Modernisation, Innovation, and Growth: Mr. Mwalusaka noted that 2025 has been a year of “renewal, momentum, and progress,” marked by rising passenger and cargo volumes, intensified infrastructure upgrades, and digital transformation in air navigation systems.
Zambia has rolled out Performance-Based Navigation (PBN) and Automatic Dependent Surveillance–Broadcast (ADS-B), enabling real-time flight tracking and more fuel-efficient operations.
The country also intensified investments in airport infrastructure, including rehabilitation works at Mfuwe International Airport to strengthen domestic tourism.
He further highlighted Zambia’s growing global footprint after assuming the Chairmanship of the ICAO African Flight Procedures Programme (AFPP) and expanding international connectivity through a new Bilateral Air Service Agreement with Eswatini.
Zambia also introduced a regulatory framework for Remotely Piloted Aircraft Systems (RPAS) to ensure safe drone use in sectors such as mining, agriculture, and emergency response.
Security, Sustainability, and Skills Development.
With the ICAO Universal Security Audit Programme (USAP) scheduled for next year, the Government has begun major aviation security upgrades, including improved screening systems, personnel training, and revised national security procedures.
The Ministry also launched a Feasibility Study for Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF) to explore locally sourced biofuel options, while climate resilience is now being integrated into all new airport designs.
Mr. Mwalusaka emphasised that developing human capital remains central, with new initiatives aimed at training the next generation of aviation professionals.
He officially declared the 2025 Annual Aviation Stakeholders’ Meeting open, calling for continued collaboration between Government, regulators, operators, and innovators.
CAA Reaffirms Shared Responsibility and Unveils 2026 Priorities
Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) Director General Captain Derrick Luembe reaffirmed that aviation success depends on strong cooperation between regulators and industry players.
He described stakeholder engagement as “a strategic necessity” that enhances safety, prevents regulatory gaps, and strengthens national competitiveness.
Reviewing 2025, Capt. Luembe highlighted major milestones, including:
Hosting the Single African Air Transport Market Pilot Implementation Project (SAATM-PIP) in August, positioning Zambia for over 20 new intra-African routes by 2028.
Expanding bilateral air service agreements at the ICAO Air Services Negotiation (ICAN) meetings.
Successfully hosting the ICAO Regional Workshop on Annex 14 Obstacle Limitation Surfaces, drawing participants from 13 African countries.
Advancing key national projects including the Nakonde Greenfield Airport, and major upgrades at Mfuwe International and Chipata Airports.
The CAA also enhanced regulatory reforms and aerodrome certification as part of efforts to build a modern and safe aviation ecosystem.
Looking Ahead to 2026:
Capt. Luembe announced five strategic priorities for the authority next year:
Strengthening professional and technical skills.
Modernising regulatory frameworks
Accelerating digital transformation and automated services,
Completing RPAS integration into national airspace,
Enhancing corporate governance in line with Government policy,
Preparations for the 2026 ICAO Universal Security Audit have intensified, while Zambia has been selected to host the 2026 Africa and Indian Ocean Aviation System Planning Group (AASPG) Meeting, a recognition of the country’s growing regional leadership.
He thanked Government, industry stakeholders, and CAA staff for their continued support, urging increased collaboration to ensure a safe, innovative, and resilient aviation sector.
Ministry of Transport and Logistics Permanent Secretary Frederick Mwalusaka (left) being welcomed by Civil Aviation Authority director general Captain Derrick Luembe at the 2025 Annual Aviation Stakeholders’ meeting. – Pix by the Ministry of Transport and Logistics Media Unit.
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