Story by Tichaona Kurewa
VICTORIA FALLS – THE 10th edition of the International Civil Aviation Organisation (ICAO) Africa-Indian Ocean (AFI) Aviation Week 2025 Conference is underway in Victoria Falls, with Zimbabwe already reaping significant benefits from the high-level engagements.
The five-day conference, jointly hosted by ICAO and the government serves as a key platform for aviation leaders, policymakers, and industry experts from across the Africa-Indian Ocean region to engage on emerging opportunities and tackle pressing challenges in the aviation sector.
Speaking at the conference on Thursday, the Deputy Minister of Transport and Infrastructural Development, Honourable Joshua Sacco, highlighted how Zimbabwe is positioning itself as a key player in the development of sustainable aviation fuels.
“A lot of important discussions have entered around the use of sustainable aviation fuels. Zimbabwe is pioneering the use of feedstock, such as sugarcane, to develop these fuels and that is a major step forward.
“It is also part of our re-engagement efforts, demonstrating that Zimbabwe is a friend to all and enemy to none. Delegates have been pleasantly surprised by what Victoria Falls has to offer, our hospitality, infrastructure, and natural beauty. We hope this translates into increased tourism and that more international conferences will be hosted here,” he said.
Parliamentary Portfolio Committee member on Transport and Infrastructural Development, Honourable Kenneth Musanhi, commended the innovation being shared at the conference.
“We are seeing exciting innovations in the industry. For example, the UAE has introduced air taxis operated by drones, an impressive leap forward. It’s an eye-opener for all of us and shows where the global aviation industry is headed.”
African countries were also reminded of the untapped potential in airspace revenue.
“The sky is a God-given, perennial resource, it does not run out. ICAO protocols allow every sovereign nation to earn air navigation fees. In Zimbabwe, we see a potential of up to US$37 million in airspace revenue.
“These funds could greatly enhance our aviation sector from acquiring aircraft to boosting capabilities like search and rescue. At NAVPASS, we are focused on ensuring every aircraft passing through our skies pays its share, whether it’s a one-hour flight or just 30 minutes. Our mission is to turn the real estate of the sky into a sustainable income stream,” NAVPASS’ Africa Representative Ambassador Ruth Hungwe said.
With over 400 local and international delegates in attendance, the ICAO AFI Week conference is proving to be a vital forum for exchanging best practices, addressing critical challenges, and strengthening collaboration across the continent.
