Morogoro. The minister of Transport, Prof Makame Mbarawa, has urged the Tanzania Airports Authority (TAA) to strengthen transparency, improve customer service and diversify its revenue base as part of efforts to enhance operational efficiency and position Tanzania as a regional transport hub.
Speaking on December 18, 2025, during the official opening of the 34th TAA Workers’ Council meeting at CATE Hotel in Morogoro, Prof Mbarawa commended TAA staff for their contribution to the growth of the aviation sector, while stressing that sustained progress would depend on integrity, discipline and professionalism across the institution.
He said that as Tanzania seeks to meet global aviation standards, airport security and service delivery must consistently align with international requirements.
The minister urged TAA to make greater use of modern technology to streamline operations and improve passenger experience.
“Accountability and collaboration between management and staff are central to institutional efficiency,” Prof Mbarawa said.
He added that professional project management and innovation were essential for effective revenue collection and service delivery.
Addressing financial sustainability, the minister noted that TAA continues to face challenges arising from high operational costs and reliance on aeronautical charges.
He directed the authority to broaden its income base by investing in non-aeronautical sources, including commercial use of airport land, digital services, public-private partnerships for infrastructure and cargo handling, as well as improved parking and retail facilities.
Providing an overview of TAA’s performance, the Director General of TAA and chairman of the Workers’ Council, Mr Abdul Mombokaleo, said the authority collected Sh163.97 billion in revenue during the 2024/25 financial year.
He said TAA currently has 1,141 permanent employees, supported by contract staff and personnel seconded from security agencies.
Mr Mombokaleo said the council meeting had brought together 107 members and 51 guests to review progress on key projects, including airport infrastructure development and terminal upgrades.
He acknowledged persistent challenges, notably funding gaps and delays in compensation payments related to land acquisition, but said the authority was working closely with the government to address them.
In his closing remarks, Prof Mbarawa called on TAA management to prioritise staff welfare, noting that improved working conditions and incentives were vital for boosting morale and productivity across the country’s airports.
The Workers’ Council meeting is scheduled to conclude on December 19, 2025, with deliberations focusing on finalising TAA’s strategic development plans.
