Story by John Nhandara
ZIMBABWE has positioned itself at the forefront of efforts to implement the Single African Air Transport Market (SAATM) Pilot Project, reinforcing its commitment to improving continental connectivity and economic integration.
A high-level delegation from the African Civil Aviation Commission (AFCAC), in the country for the Single African Air Transport Market Pilot Implementation Project Zimbabwe Air Show, called for faster liberalisation of air transport, saying it is critical to the success of the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA).
COMESA representative, Dr Benard Dzawanda said liberalised air transport is key to unlocking Africa’s economic potential.
“There is a need to support the operationalisation of the Single African Air Transport Market as this is expected to improve connectivity and grow Africa’s GDP. Liberalised skies are the backbone of the AfCFTA,” he said.
African Union Commission representative, Engineer Eric Ntagengerwa said Zimbabwe had demonstrated its commitment to the initiative.
“Zimbabwe has shown commitment in line with the AfCFTA. Intra-African air connectivity remains low, and SAATM is our collective response. It presents a strategic opportunity for the continent and for Zimbabwe to become a regional aviation hub,” he said.
SAATM Pilot Implementation Project Ambassador, Mr Edmund Makona said the initiative would unlock greater economic opportunities.
“This project will increase trade opportunities and facilitate tourism and aviation growth,” he said.
AFCAC Secretary General, Mr Adeyemi Adefunke urged African countries to remove barriers to air connectivity.
“Zimbabwe has demonstrated commitment to SAATM and established itself as a serious implementation example in Southern Africa. Air transport is economic infrastructure, not a luxury. We must remove barriers that restrict connectivity and invest in modern airports,” he said.
Minister of Transport and Infrastructural Development, Honourable Felix Mhona said Zimbabwe has already invested heavily in aviation infrastructure to support the liberalisation agenda.
“Zimbabwe has, through Public-Private Partnerships, invested significantly in the rehabilitation, expansion and modernisation of Joshua Mqabuko Nkomo International Airport, Victoria Falls International Airport and Robert Gabriel Mugabe International Airport. The Robert Gabriel Mugabe International Airport project increased passenger handling capacity from approximately two million to 6.5 million passengers annually. We have also invested in modern airspace management infrastructure, including a Secondary Surveillance Radar System and upgraded Air Traffic Control systems, to enhance aviation safety and operational efficiency,” he said.
The Single African Air Transport Market Pilot Implementation Project Zimbabwe Air Show was held under the theme: “Acceleration of Air Transport Liberalisation in Africa to Improve Continental Connectivity and Integration.”
