Monduli. The Deputy Minister for Transport, David Kihenzile, has conducted a site inspection of the Tanzania Civil Aviation Authority’s (TCAA) ongoing project to upgrade voice communication systems between pilots and air traffic controllers.
The Sh31.6 billion initiative utilises Very High Frequency (VHF) technology and is being implemented at 18 primary and 12 auxiliary locations nationwide.
This project is a key element of Tanzania’s broader aviation infrastructure modernisation programme, aimed at enhancing the safety, reliability, and efficiency of air transport services in line with international standards.
The government’s sustained investment in this sector is part of its vision to position Tanzania as a leading regional aviation hub in East Africa.
During the inspection, Mr Kihenzile emphasised the critical role of effective communication in aviation safety, noting that the VHF system upgrade will significantly reduce communication disruptions that have previously affected air traffic management.
“TCAA has demonstrated a genuine commitment to advancing air transport services, which is vital for ensuring both safety and operational efficiency,” Mr Kihenzile said after visiting the Lolkisale VHF site in Monduli District, Arusha Region.
Project Manager, Francis Chale, reported that the implementation phase has reached 90 percent completion, with several components already operational under trial.
The system’s deployment across major airports and remote stations is expected to facilitate seamless direct communication between pilots and air traffic controllers nationwide.
The importance of the Lolkisale site, historically a telecommunications hub since the 1970s, was highlighted by Tanzania Telecommunications Company Limited (TTCL) Arusha Regional Manager, Amani Kichere.
He explained that the location has served as a critical node for communications infrastructure, with TTCL collaborating closely with TCAA to ensure uninterrupted service provision.
The project complements the recent installation of four modern radar stations across the country, which collectively enhance airspace surveillance capabilities.
These technological advancements reflect Tanzania’s commitment to meeting International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) standards and improving its competitive edge in the aviation sector.
At Kilimanjaro International Airport (KIA), Mr Kihenzile observed the operational environment for air traffic controllers and assessed how new infrastructure facilitates more effective management of air traffic.
“The government’s investment in modern aviation technology is a clear indication of its resolve to improve the safety, efficiency, and competitiveness of Tanzania’s air transport industry,” the Deputy Minister said.
These efforts are aligned with Tanzania’s strategic goal of becoming a pivotal air transport hub in East Africa, leveraging geographic advantage and infrastructure development to attract increased regional and international air traffic.
