The Malawi government is inviting expressions of interest in upgrading and replacing aviation safety and security equipment at two of the country's major airports.

The Department of Civil Aviation, which falls under the Ministry of Transport and Public Works, says the project will be implemented at Kamuzu International Airport (KIA), in the capital city of Lilongwe, and Chileka International Airport (CIA), in Blantyre, the commercial hub, using the proceeds of a loan from the European Investment Bank.

The department says the overall aim is to address aviation infrastructural deficiencies and that the project will involve the provision of equipment such as air traffic services message handling systems, navigation equipment, air traffic control voice recorders, firefighting and rescue equipment, ground handling equipment, security systems, air traffic management systems, high- and medium-voltage equipment, aeronautical ground lights and metrological equipment.

“An element of capacity building through user training targeting operating and maintenance personnel will also be part of the scope of the contract,” states the department.

The project will help Malawi improve its compliance with International Civil Aviation Organisation standards for a safe and secure operating environment for airlines and passengers.

The department explains that the project scope comprises seven packages, with the first involving the supply, installation and commissioning of communications, meteorological and operational equipmentl; the second the design, building and rehabilitation of perimeter roads, security guard towers and perimeter fences; and the third the design, building and rehabilitation of high- and medium-voltage electrical equipment. The fourth package will involve the design and building of a new fire station at CIA and the extension of the arrivals lounge at that airport; the fifth the supply of ground service equipment at the two airports; the sixth the supply, installation and commissioning of airport security equipment; and the seventh the rehabilitation of airport ground and approach lighting at CIA and rehabilitation of taxiway lights at KIA.

The department highlights that “solar-powered applications will be implemented where allowed by international standards”.

The deadline for the submission of bids is July 3.