In an effort to improve and strengthen security at the Zanzibar International Airport, the United Kingdom (UK) has donated aviation security equipment to the Isles.
British High Commissioner to Tanzania Ms Diana Melrose
In her brief speech at the handing over ceremony held at the airport administrative building here, British High Commissioner to Tanzania Ms Diana Melrose said her government is committed to helping Zanzibar improve its aviation security capability.
“Security is important as terrorism is a global threat… underlines the importance of working together and sharing information,” said Melrose before handing over the equipment to the Zanzibar Aviation Authority (ZAA).
The tools including x-ray trays, test pieces for x-ray machines, hand held metal, and walk through metal detectors which will assist in broadening aviation security detection capability at the airport.
The donation worth more than 5,000 US dollars also included a selection of Aviation Security DVDs and other training aids. She said the modern equipment will ease the work of screening passengers and their luggage.
The envoy also thanked Zanzibar people and President Ali Mohammed Shein for working hard in addressing the problem of use of acid against people. “We ask people in Zanzibar to help the police arrest suspects behind the attack of British young ladies,” she said.
Airport Director General Mr Said Iddi also revealed that some of the ZAA staffs have benefited from the aviation security trainings offered by the UK government through the regional aviation security liaison officer aimed at human resource development and improvement of the security measures and procedures.
Mr Abdulhalim Sururu, director for airdromes, said that ZAA airports staff still need capacity building to minimize current unskillful in security in handling passengers and growing air transport.
Zanzibar Minister for information and Tourism Mr Said Ali Mbarouk joined with the deputy minister for communication and infrastructure Mr Issa Haji Ussi to thank UK for the valuable support in improving security at the airport. Prior to the event, Ambassador Diana met with President Ali Mohammed Shein at the State House where they also talked about security as an important area of focus.
By RAHMA SULEIMAN, Tanzania Daily News
