Aviation safety in East Africa received a significant boost as the East African Community Civil Aviation Safety and Security Oversight Agency (CASSOA), in partnership with the International Air Transport Association (IATA), conducted a four-day Dangerous Goods On-the-Job Training and Competency Assessor Workshop in Entebbe, Uganda. Held from June 3 to 6, 2026, at the Protea Hotel, the workshop brought together Dangerous Goods Inspectors from across the East African Community (EAC) Partner States to enhance their professional capabilities and strengthen regional aviation oversight.
The transportation of dangerous goods by air remains one of the most sensitive areas in aviation. Items such as lithium batteries, flammable substances, compressed gases, chemicals, and radioactive materials require strict compliance with international regulations to prevent accidents and ensure safe operations. Recognizing the importance of effective oversight, CASSOA and IATA organized the workshop to equip inspectors with the latest knowledge, practical skills, and assessment techniques needed to regulate this critical sector.
Among the participants was a team from the Uganda Civil Aviation Authority (UCAA), which joined fellow inspectors from across the region in the intensive training programme. Throughout the four days, participants engaged in practical exercises, discussions, and hands-on learning sessions designed to improve their ability to assess compliance and enforce dangerous goods regulations. The training focused on real-world situations, allowing inspectors to strengthen their decision-making and inspection skills.
A major highlight of the workshop was the introduction and application of the Competency-Based Training and Assessment (CBTA) framework. The framework, recommended by the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO), focuses on developing measurable competencies rather than relying solely on theoretical knowledge. Through this approach, inspectors are trained to demonstrate their ability to perform specific tasks and effectively respond to challenges they may encounter during their oversight duties.
The workshop also served as a platform for regional collaboration and knowledge sharing. Participants exchanged experiences from their respective countries, discussed emerging challenges in dangerous goods transportation, and explored practical solutions that can be adopted across the East African Community. Such engagements help promote harmonized safety standards and strengthen cooperation among civil aviation authorities in the region.
As air transport continues to grow across East Africa, the need for highly skilled inspectors becomes increasingly important. Well-trained dangerous goods inspectors play a crucial role in protecting passengers, crew members, aircraft, and airport facilities from risks associated with the improper handling or transportation of hazardous materials. By investing in capacity building, the region is taking proactive steps to maintain high levels of safety and compliance with global aviation standards.
The successful completion of the workshop reflects the commitment of both CASSOA and IATA to supporting aviation safety and professional development within the East African Community. It also demonstrates the determination of Partner States to build a competent workforce capable of addressing the evolving demands of the aviation industry.
With new knowledge, enhanced competencies, and strengthened regional networks, the inspectors return to their respective countries better prepared to carry out their responsibilities. The training represents another milestone in East Africa’s journey toward safer, more secure, and internationally compliant aviation operations, ensuring that the region’s skies remain safe for all who travel and do business within them.
