The East African Community Civil Aviation Safety and Security Oversight Agency (CASSOA), in partnership with the International Air Transport Association (IATA), successfully organized a four-day Dangerous Goods On-the-Job Training and Competency Assessor Workshop from June 3 to 6, 2026, at the Protea Hotel in Entebbe, Uganda. The workshop brought together Dangerous Goods Inspectors from across the East African Community (EAC) Partner States to strengthen their knowledge, skills, and competencies in handling and regulating the transportation of dangerous goods by air.
The training comes at a time when aviation safety remains a top priority for countries in the region. Dangerous goods such as chemicals, batteries, flammable liquids, gases, and other hazardous materials require strict handling procedures to ensure the safety of passengers, crew members, aircraft, and airport facilities. The workshop therefore provided participants with practical knowledge and hands-on experience to effectively oversee and enforce international dangerous goods regulations.A team from the Uganda Civil Aviation Authority (UCAA) actively participated in the training alongside inspectors from other EAC Partner States. Through interactive sessions, practical exercises, and expert guidance from IATA facilitators, participants were introduced to the standard Competency-Based Training and Assessment (CBTA) framework.
This framework is designed to ensure that aviation personnel not only acquire knowledge but also demonstrate the skills and competencies required to perform their duties effectively.The workshop was specifically aimed at helping Dangerous Goods Inspectors meet the requirements set by the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO). As the aviation industry continues to evolve, ICAO encourages aviation authorities and industry stakeholders to adopt competency-based approaches to training and assessment. By embracing the CBTA framework, inspectors will be better equipped to identify risks, assess compliance, and ensure that dangerous goods are transported safely and securely throughout the region.Beyond enhancing individual competencies, the workshop also provided a valuable platform for inspectors to share experiences, discuss common challenges, and exchange best practices.
Such collaboration is essential in promoting harmonized safety standards across the East African Community. Strong cooperation among Partner States helps create a more efficient and safer aviation system that supports regional integration, trade, tourism, and economic growth.Speaking through their participation and engagement, the inspectors demonstrated a strong commitment to continuous professional development and aviation excellence. The knowledge and skills gained during the workshop are expected to contribute significantly to strengthening oversight functions within their respective civil aviation authorities.
As the workshop concluded, participants left with renewed confidence and a deeper understanding of modern dangerous goods oversight practices. The joint efforts of CASSOA and IATA highlight the importance of partnerships in building capacity and promoting world-class aviation safety standards. The training marks another important step toward ensuring safer skies across East Africa and reinforcing the region’s commitment to meeting international aviation requirements.
