Zambia has hosted the ICAO Regional Workshop on the new Annex 14 Obstacle Limitation Surfaces (OLS) Standards, held in Lusaka from 18 to 21 November 2025. The event brought together aviation regulators, operators, technical specialists and experts from across Africa as part of wider regional efforts to enhance aviation safety and harmonise aerodrome obstacle management in line with updated global standards.
Speaking on behalf of the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Transport and Logistics, Assistant Director Aviation Paul Mulola reaffirmed the Government’s commitment to strengthening aviation safety oversight and aligning national frameworks with ICAO requirements. He noted that the workshop comes at a critical time as African States adopt updated OLS specifications aimed at improving operational safety and safeguarding aerodrome airspace.
SASO representative Edgar Dupont encouraged Member States to collaborate and share resources to reinforce obstacle management capabilities. He highlighted that harmonised regional implementation will reduce safety risks and support consistent application of global standards.
Delivering remarks on behalf of the ICAO Eastern and Southern Africa (ESAF) Regional Director, ICAO ESAF Officer for Aerodrome and Ground Aids Elisha Omuya commended Zambia’s leadership in aviation safety. He underscored that the revised OLS framework has long-term implications for airport planning, land-use management and regulatory oversight, calling for a coordinated regional approach to ensure smooth implementation.
Representing the Civil Aviation Authority Director General, ZCAA Director of Aerodrome Safety and Security Eng. Nathan Kaluba outlined the Authority’s progress in adopting the revised provisions and assisting aerodrome operators in meeting compliance requirements. He emphasised the value of the workshop in enabling Member States to exchange best practices, harmonise oversight approaches and strengthen technical expertise.
Zambia Airports Corporation Limited Managing Director Urvesh J. Desai reaffirmed ZACL’s commitment to modernising airport infrastructure and upholding the highest safety standards. He confirmed that ZACL is working closely with ICAO to assess existing obstacles and redesign the national OLS framework in line with the updated Annex 14 requirements.
The successful workshop reinforced Zambia’s ongoing leadership in advancing aviation safety, promoting harmonised regional implementation and supporting modern obstacle management solutions across Africa.
