Dr. Bao Mosinyi, the Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of the Civil Aviation Authority of Botswana (CAAB), delivered a thought-provoking public lecture on December 4, 2024 in the BIUST Auditorium themed, “The Transforming Impact of Past and Present Developments in Civil Aviation and Aerospace Engineering on Societies: my personal journey and experience” The event, that brought together academics, staff, students and aviation enthusiasts, showcased Dr. Mosinyi’s vast experience and vision for Botswana’s role in global aviation connectivity and innovation.
He began the lecture by tracing his journey as a student and professional, sharing insights from his formative years and career milestones. He credited these experiences for shaping his leadership philosophy and expert understanding of civil aviation’s critical role in societal and economic transformation.
Dr. Mosinyi highlighted Botswana’s current aviation connectivity footprint, with direct links to neighbouring countries, including Namibia, South Africa, Zimbabwe, and Ethiopia. However, he emphasized that CAAB envisions Botswana as a burgeoning hub of connectivity in Africa.
To this end, he revealed a strategic collaboration with organisations such as the Botswana Tourism Organization (BTO) and the Botswana Investment and Trade Centre (BITC) in which they signed a memorandum of agreement with an aim to transform Botswana’s connectivity landscape by establishing new links with additional countries and expanding the nation’s global aviation footprint.
Dr. Mosinyi underscored the importance of embracing cutting-edge technology in modern aviation. Botswana currently operates three secondary surveillance radar stations in Gaborone, Maun, and Letlhakane, which are pivotal for air traffic control and safety.
Looking ahead, Dr. Mosinyi revealed CAAB’s plans to adopt Automatic Dependent Surveillance-Broadcast (ADS-B) technology to maximize lateral surveillance coverage. “This technology will allow us to match the capabilities of developed countries, ensuring our airspace is safe, efficient, and future-ready,” he explained.
The lecture offered a compelling narrative of how advancements in civil aviation and aerospace engineering have transformed societies by enhancing connectivity, fostering economic growth, and promoting cultural exchange. Dr. Mosinyi emphasised that Botswana has the potential to lead in these areas with strategic investments, collaborations, and the adoption of innovative technologies.
In closing, Dr. Mosinyi encouraged stakeholders to embrace a shared vision for the future of aviation in Botswana. He described the sector as a key enabler of national development and called for continued collaboration to unlock its full potential.
