Gweru – The Zimbabwe Defence Forces (ZDF) has announced the tragic death of Air Lieutenant Nesbert Tambudza, who perished when a Karakorum-8 (K-8) jet trainer aircraft crashed near Guinea Fowl in Gweru during a solo training flight.
According to the ZDF statement, the accident occurred approximately five kilometers east of Guinea Fowl while the pilot was undergoing general handling and navigation training. The aircraft was extensively damaged upon impact, but no civilian casualties or property damage were reported.
Commander of the Zimbabwe Defence Forces, General PV Sibanda, expressed deep sorrow over the loss, describing Air Lieutenant Tambudza as a talented and promising pilot. “The news of his death has been received with heavy hearts. All officers, men, and women of the ZDF are mourning this tragic loss,” he said.
Air Lieutenant Tambudza was undergoing jet flying conversion training at Number 2 Squadron, Josiah Tungamirai Air Force Base in Gweru. He was in the final phases of his training at the time of the crash.
The Air Force of Zimbabwe has set up a Board of Inquiry to investigate the cause of the accident. Funeral arrangements for the late officer will be announced in due course.
