Improved security brings economic benefits

Security has long remained one of the biggest challenges when doing business in Africa, but there is light at the end of the tunnel. According to Heinz Lange, operations manager Africa for aircraft charter specialists Chapman Freeborn, security practices have definitely improved thanks to the high level of interest and subsequent activity on the continent. “In areas where traffic has increased one can see the improvement in security measures, while the incidents have decreased,” Lange told FTW. “Countries like Uganda, Tanzania and Kenya have put a lot of effort into improving their security profiles and it is paying off.” While in general it may not yet be to world standards, Lange said efforts should be commended as they were making for much safer operating environments. Countries that remain security risks are those that are still politically unstable or war torn, he said. “But at the same time it is not impossible to move cargo into these areas. It only means one has to increase efforts to secure not only the cargo but also the equipment and the crew; planning is essential.” According to Lange, countries are increasingly seeing the economic benefits of improved security and there’s a renewed focus on making operating environments safer. “Security, however, should remain high on the agenda of the cargo owner, the service supplier and operator alike. One should never underestimate the importance of security regardless of the speed or urgency that is required in a situation.” INSERT & CAPTION One should never underestimate the importance of security regardless of the speed or urgency. – Heinz Lange