Staff Reporter
Cabinet has approved a comprehensive Air Services Development Plan aimed at transforming Victoria Falls Airport and Robert Gabriel Mugabe International Airport into major hubs for tourism and business.
The plan was presented to Cabinet by the Minister of Transport and Infrastructural Development, Felix Mhona, who outlines strategies to enhance air connectivity and attract more airlines to Zimbabwe, positioning the country as a destination of choice for international tourists and businesses.
Addressing the media after the Cabinet session yesterday, the Minister of Information, Publicity, and Broadcasting Services, Dr. Jenfan Muswere emphasised the significance of the plan in driving economic growth through increased air traffic.
"The Air Services Development Plan will be used to identify potential tourist and business source markets for Zimbabwe. It will provide the foundation for preparing business cases for new air routes, which we can present to airlines at industry events and trade shows”, said Dr. Muswere.
Minister Muswere explained that the plan is informed by an assessment of both demand and supply factors, infrastructure readiness, and the broader aviation environment in Zimbabwe.
"The plan recognises the importance of a coordinated approach by both the public and private sectors to actively develop new air routes. This strategy will ensure that we engage potential airlines effectively and grow Zimbabwe’s connectivity with the rest of the world," he added.
To ensure the successful implementation of the plan, Cabinet has established an Air Services Development Steering Committee and a supporting Technical Committee.
These bodies will oversee the execution of the strategy and promote the development of new air routes.
"The steering committee will not only oversee the plan’s development but also ensure the success of existing air routes while working to attract new ones," Dr. Muswere said.
The Air Services Development Plan is expected to significantly boost Zimbabwe's tourism sector by increasing international arrivals.
It is also designed to improve air connectivity within Africa and beyond, making Zimbabwe a more accessible destination for global travellers.
"Our goal is to make Zimbabwe a destination of choice for both tourism and business. The plan will facilitate easier travel within Africa and to other international destinations, ultimately increasing the number of flights into Zimbabwe," Minister Muswere emphasised.
The plan also highlights the importance of communication strategies in promoting Zimbabwe as a travel destination.
With this new Air Services Development Plan, Zimbabwe is poised to strengthen its aviation sector and bolster its economy through increased tourism and improved business connectivity.
