Reported by: S. Ernest.
Date:13th January, 2025.
Lusaka, Zambia.
The Ministry of Transport and Logistics has announced that Zambia’s civil aviation industry will undergo the International Civil Aviation Organisation (ICAO) Universal Security Audit Programme Continuous Monitoring Approach (USAP-CMA) security audit next year.
The audit is designed to enhance global aviation security through rigorous evaluation and monitoring, ensuring that Member States adhere to internationally recognized security standards.
Speaking during a stakeholder engagement meeting held at M’kango Golf View in Lusaka, Ministry of Transport and Logistics Director of Transport, Mr. Nkumbu Siame, representing Permanent Secretary Mr. Fredrick Mwalusaka, emphasized the importance of a unified approach to ensure the success of the audit.
“This process requires a collaborative effort from all of us: government agencies, airport operators, airline representatives, law enforcers and other entities involved in aviation security. Together, we must work as a unified team to address challenges and showcase Zambia’s commitment to aviation security excellence,” he said.
The engagement meeting focused on critical objectives, including understanding the ICAO Security Audit Framework, assessing Zambia’s current preparedness, fostering collaboration among stakeholders, and establishing a roadmap for implementation ahead of the audit.
Mr. Mwalusaka reaffirmed the government’s commitment to achieving another successful audit, highlighting that aviation security is not just a national obligation but also a shared global responsibility. He expressed confidence in the readiness and dedication of stakeholders in meeting the required standards.
In his remarks, Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) Director General, Captain Derrick Luembe, thanked stakeholders for their cooperation during the 2024 Universal Safety Oversight Audit Program Continuous Monitoring Approach (USOAP-CMA) audit, where Zambia achieved a commendable score of 72.94 percent. He urged the aviation industry to continue working closely with the CAA to prepare for the upcoming ICAO security audit.
The USAP-CMA audit assesses the effectiveness of a country’s aviation security oversight system and compliance with critical elements, including Annex 17—Security Standards and Annex 9—Facilitation to the Chicago Convention. This process underscores Zambia’s commitment to maintaining and improving its aviation security standards in line with global benchmarks.
The Civil Aviation Authority(CAA) was established in 2012 as an autonomous regulator to ensure effective safety oversight and compliance within Zambia’s aviation sector. Its mandate includes providing regulatory services, enhancing safety and ensuring the protection of all air transport users in the country.
As Zambia prepares for the 2026 ICAO audit, the collaborative efforts of all aviation stakeholders will be pivotal in further elevating the nation’s standing in global aviation security.
Zambia Civil Aviation Authority
ICAO – International Civil Aviation Organization
Ministry of Transport and Logistics-Zambia
The Agency
