This law repeals the Airports Licensing and Control Act of 1974.Photo: File
By Adonis Byemelwa
The Tanzanian Parliament has approved the 2024 Tanzania Airports Bill, designed to enhance the authority of the Tanzania Airports Authority (TAA) by granting it full control over the management, operation, and development of all airports in the country.
On August 28, 2024, Transport Minister Prof. Makame Mbarawa presented the bill to Parliament, emphasizing the need for a strong and efficient legal framework to govern the nation's airports. “This law repeals the Airports Licensing and Control Act of 1974. Under the new provisions, the Authority will continue its duties as the primary governing body,” Prof. Mbarawa stated.
The bill, now awaiting President Samia Suluhu Hassan's signature to become law, introduces significant changes, including the establishment of a dedicated firefighting unit within the TAA, eliminating the previous reliance on the Fire and Rescue Force.
Previously, the TAA operated as an agency under the Government Agencies Act, Chapter 245, with its powers restricted by an Advisory Board. The new legislation empowers the TAA to oversee all aspects of airport management, resolving long-standing issues like the controversy over Kilimanjaro International Airport (KIA), which was previously managed by private companies.
The recently proposed bill holds significant implications for the Tanzania Airports Authority (TAA) and the broader Tanzanian public. By imposing stringent new conditions, the bill mandates that government-owned airports adhere to enhanced regulatory standards. This development is poised to reshape the operational landscape of the TAA.
“Under the new bill, the TAA will be required to take on expanded responsibilities including airport safety, firefighting, rescue services, and wildlife control,” explained one anonymous air ticketing expert. “These are critical areas that were not as rigorously enforced before. The authority will need to make substantial investments in both training and infrastructure to comply with these standards.”
For Tanzanians, the bill promises several potential benefits. Enhanced safety measures at airports could improve travel experiences, foster tourism growth, and provide a boost to the national economy. “In the long term, this bill could lead to a more secure and efficient travel environment,” noted another expert who chose to remain unnamed. “This should attract more tourists and have a positive ripple effect on the economy.”
However, the transition may come at a cost. The increased financial burden on the TAA could translate into higher airport fees for travelers. “While the intention behind the bill is commendable, we must be cautious of the financial implications,” the expert warned. “Increased operational costs could lead to higher fees for passengers, which might offset some of the benefits of improved services.”
Despite these concerns, the overarching promise of the bill is to elevate the quality and accountability of the TAA's operations. “The bill introduces a much-needed overhaul that aims to strengthen the TAA’s accountability and service quality,” the anonymous source added. “This is crucial for the future growth of Tanzania’s aviation sector, ensuring that it meets international standards and serves the public effectively.”