Dar es Salaam. On the warm morning of November 28th, 2024, a gathering of innovators, stakeholders, and experts from across Tanzania and East Africa converged at the Millennium Tower here in the city.
The air was filled with anticipation and excitement as the Tanzania DJI Drone User Conference officially opened its doors.
This was not just a conference; it was the beginning of a new era for Tanzania, an era where drone technology would become a driving force for economic, social, and cultural transformation.
Standing at the podium, Mr Daniel Malanga, the Tanzania Civil Aviation Authority (TCAA) acting director general, spoke with both pride and humility.
His words echoed the vision of the Tanzanian government, a vision where drones would not only redefine industries but also improve lives.
As he opened the conference, he acknowledged the incredible potential of drones, emphasizing their importance in various sectors—from agriculture and livestock to health and infrastructure.
“Drone technology has emerged as a transformative force in aviation and beyond,” Mr Malanga, who also doubles as the TCAA’s Economic Regulation director, said, his voice steady and confident.
He said the global drone market is projected to exceed $101 billion by 2032, driven by advancements in AI, machine learning, and the Internet of things.
These innovations are making drones more autonomous, capable of completing complex tasks, and essential tools for various industries. In Tanzania, we are ready to embrace this transformation.
The room for the conference, organized by Techno Environment Investment Company Limited, an authorized drone dealer, fell silent as Mr Malanga’s words resonated with everyone in the audience.
Tanzania was at the cusp of something great. The potential of drone technology was undeniable, and the people in the room were ready to be part of this exciting journey.
“We have witnessed the resilience of Tanzania during the challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic,” Mr Malanga continued.
“And today, our drone businesses are not only recovering but thriving. This reflects our nation’s adaptability and determination to embrace innovation, no matter the challenges we face.”
The energy in the room shifted from one of cautious optimism to one of collective purpose.
The attendees—ranging from drone enthusiasts to industry experts, government representatives, and media professionals—recognized the significance of the moment.
This wasn’t just about flying drones; it was about harnessing a technology that could change the very fabric of Tanzanian society.
Mr Malanga spoke of the “multiplier effects” of drones—the ways in which this technology could impact various sectors.
In agriculture, for instance, drones were revolutionizing how farmers sprayed fertilizers and pesticides, ensuring precision and efficiency.
They were helping farmers save time, reduce labor costs, and increase yields.
“Drones allow us to quickly cover large areas, ensuring that crops receive the care they need without delay or mishaps,” Mr Malanga explained.
“But beyond agriculture, drones are also enhancing livestock management. They help track animals remotely, monitor grazing patterns, and ensure the welfare of the animals—all while keeping workers safe and reducing costs.”
As he spoke, the audience saw the immense potential of drones to create a ripple effect that could transform entire industries.
From healthcare, where drones could deliver essential medical supplies to remote areas, to conservation, where drones could map fragile ecosystems and monitor wildlife, the applications were endless.
As the audience absorbed Mr Malanga’s words, Mr Ephraim Danford, the CEO of Techno Environment Investment Co. Ltd., took the stage.
His presence commanded attention, and he began his address with confidence
“As the CEO of Techno Environment Investment, I have witnessed first-hand the transformative impact of drone technology in our operations and services,” Mr Danford said.
“Our commitment to fostering innovation and excellence in this field is unwavering, and this conference is a testament to that commitment.”
He continued, outlining the innovative technologies being showcased at the conference.
“Today, we will explore through various sessions and demonstrations how advanced drone technology like the DJI Matrice 350 series, Multispectral Sensor Flytbase Software, and the revolutionary DJI Dock 2 can be leveraged to solve real-world problems effectively and efficiently,”’
He paused, looking around at the eager faces in the room.
“We look forward to engaging discussions, valuable learning experiences, and forging partnerships that will propel us toward a smarter, more sustainable future.”
Mr Danford’s final words echoed the spirit of the conference.
“Let us embrace the opportunities for innovation, learning, and collaboration that this conference presents,” he urged.
