foster+freeman Technology Supports UK-Ethiopia Aviation Security Partnership
Advanced screening technology and international collaboration are playing an increasingly important role in protecting global air travel. As aviation networks continue to grow and security threats evolve, investment in modern detection capabilities is essential to ensuring the safety of passengers, staff and critical infrastructure.
As part of a UK Government-funded initiative to modernise Ethiopia’s aviation security capabilities, foster+freeman technology has been deployed to support security screening operations at Bole International Airport, one of Africa’s busiest aviation hubs. The programme forms part of a wider partnership between the United Kingdom and Ethiopia aimed at strengthening aviation security through the introduction of advanced technology, specialist expertise and long-term cooperation.
The official handover ceremony was attended by representatives from the British Embassy in Ethiopia, the National Intelligence and Security Service (NISS), Ethiopian Airlines, the Ethiopian Civil Aviation Authority, and other senior government officials. Representing foster+freeman was Sales Manager Owen Lang, who joined partners to mark the deployment of the new technology and reaffirm the company’s commitment to supporting security professionals around the world.
The initiative represents an investment of 25 million Ethiopian Birr by the UK Government to help modernise Ethiopia’s aviation security infrastructure. The programme focuses on equipping frontline security personnel with advanced screening capabilities to better detect emerging threats while maintaining the efficient movement of passengers through one of Africa’s most important international gateways.
During the ceremony, speakers from both the Ethiopian and UK governments emphasised that aviation security is a shared international responsibility. Officials highlighted the long-standing relationship between the two countries and the importance of continued cooperation in addressing increasingly sophisticated security challenges affecting global air travel.
British Ambassador to Ethiopia Darren Wilch described the programme as an example of the strong partnership between the UK and Ethiopia, recognising the work of Ethiopian aviation security professionals and noting that keeping international travellers safe is a responsibility shared by nations across the world.
Representatives from the National Intelligence and Security Service also highlighted the significance of the technology investment as Ethiopia prepares for continued growth in international aviation. With plans underway for a new airport capable of handling up to 120 million passengers annually, alongside the continued expansion of Bole International Airport, maintaining world-class aviation security standards will remain a national priority.
The programme also supports Ethiopia’s preparations for future international events, including COP32, reinforcing the need for resilient, modern security infrastructure capable of meeting increasing passenger volumes and evolving threat environments.
For foster+freeman, participation in this initiative reflects the company’s continued commitment to developing advanced screening technologies that help security agencies detect emerging threats with greater speed, confidence and accuracy. Around the world, foster+freeman systems are trusted by border agencies, aviation authorities, law enforcement organisations and government institutions to enhance security while supporting efficient operational workflows.
The deployment in Ethiopia demonstrates the value of combining innovative technology with strong international partnerships. By working together, governments, industry and security professionals can build safer, more resilient transport networks that protect passengers and facilitate secure global travel.
As global aviation continues to evolve, foster+freeman remains proud to support organisations around the world with technologies that strengthen security, improve operational capability and help protect millions of travellers every day.
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