Gabon Engages in Global Aviation Dialogue at GISS 2026
Gabon has actively participated in the 5th edition of the Global Symposium on Support for the Implementation of Civil Aviation (GISS 2026), which took place from April 14 to April 16 in Marrakech, Morocco. This significant event was organized by the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) and served as a high-level strategic platform bringing together governments, civil aviation authorities, technical and financial partners, as well as key players in the global aviation industry. The Gabonese delegation was led by the Minister of State for Transport, Merchant Marine, and Logistics, Mr. Ulrich Manfoumbi, accompanied by General Eric Tristan Franck Moussavou, the Director General of the National Civil Aviation Agency (ANAC), alongside several prominent figures from the aviation sector.
With over 1,400 participants from approximately 100 countries, GISS 2026 focused on the effective implementation of international standards, capacity building, and global cooperation in civil aviation. The theme of this year's symposium, "No Country Left Behind," emphasized the promotion of a more inclusive, sustainable, and secure aviation sector. The discussions and sessions aimed to enhance mechanisms that support states in applying international aviation standards effectively.
Key Discussions and Future Collaborations
During the symposium, the Gabonese delegation engaged in several high-level sessions, including a ministerial roundtable dedicated to the topic: "No Country Left Behind: Moving from Commitment to Action." Minister Manfoubi shared Gabon's vision for civil aviation development, highlighting the ongoing institutional and regulatory reforms aimed at enhancing governance, compliance with ICAO standards, and supervisory capabilities within the nation’s aviation sector. Major topics discussed included strengthening state capacity, financing aviation projects, developing infrastructure, and fostering talent through training in the aviation field.
On the sidelines of the symposium, the Director General of ANAC held numerous meetings with international partners, including ICAO, CAFAC, and the French Civil Aviation Authority (DGAC). These discussions centered on critical projects for Gabon, such as the construction of the new Andeme airport, enhancing technical and institutional capacities, training human resources, and supporting the implementation of the African Single Air Transport Market (MUTAA). Additionally, new opportunities for training cooperation were identified, particularly through international programs aimed at inspectors and aviation professionals.
GISS 2026 concluded with strong commitments to accelerate the implementation of ICAO standards, enhance safety, security, and sustainability in air transport, and promote skill development on a global scale. Several cooperation agreements and financing initiatives were announced, reflecting a collective desire to translate commitments into concrete actions that support the growth of the aviation sector.
Through its active participation in this landmark symposium, Gabon reaffirms its commitment to modernizing its civil aviation, strengthening its institutional capacities, and fully engaging in the global dynamics of air transport development. This international presence underscores the intentions of Gabon’s highest authorities to position the country as a credible and competitive player within the African and global aviation ecosystem.
As reported by anacgabon.org.
