SLCAA CONCLUDES AFI-CES TECHNICAL ASSISTANCE MISSION WITH RENEWED COMMITMENT TO AVIATION SECURITY EXCELLENCE
The Sierra Leone Civil Aviation Authority (SLCAA) has successfully concluded the AFI-CES Technical Assistance Mission, marking a significant step forward in strengthening the country’s aviation security (AVSEC) framework through enhanced collaboration, technical support, and capacity building.
Delivering the closing remarks on behalf of the Director General, the Director of Aviation Security commended the high level of professionalism, technical expertise, and engagement demonstrated throughout the mission. The exercise brought together experts from the African Civil Aviation Commission and the SLCAA AVSEC team in a series of productive sessions aimed at improving oversight systems and aligning national practices with international standards set by the International Civil Aviation Organization.
Over the course of the mission, participants conducted a comprehensive review of SLCAA’s aviation security Guidance Materials, ensuring they are both aligned with global standards and practical for effective implementation. In addition, in-depth discussions on the Certification Programme emphasized the importance of a structured, competency-based approach to training, qualification, and continuous professional development for AVSEC personnel.
A key highlight of the mission was the review of the National Quality Control Programme, a critical component of aviation security oversight. The insights and recommendations provided by AFCAC experts are expected to significantly enhance SLCAA’s capacity to monitor compliance, identify gaps, and implement corrective actions in a systematic and sustainable manner.
The mission also strengthened the operational capabilities of SLCAA inspectors, equipping them with improved tools and methodologies to conduct oversight activities with greater precision, consistency, and confidence, in line with international best practices.
The SLCAA expressed its sincere appreciation to the Secretary General of AFCAC for continued leadership and support, as well as to the team of experts for their dedication and willingness to share knowledge. Gratitude was also extended to the various Director Generals and institutions across the region for facilitating the participation of their experts, reflecting a shared commitment to advancing aviation development in Africa.
This collaboration underscores the collective vision of the Single African Air Transport Market (SAATM) and reinforces the guiding principle of ICAO—ensuring that no country is left behind in achieving global aviation safety and security standards.
The SLCAA reaffirmed its full commitment to implementing the recommendations arising from the mission and sustaining the progress achieved. The Authority views the conclusion of the AFI-CES mission not as an endpoint, but as a critical milestone in its ongoing efforts to build a resilient, effective, and internationally compliant aviation security system.
