Harare, The government’s push to modernise Zimbabwe’s airport infrastructure has reached a significant milestone with the expansion of Robert Gabriel Mugabe International Airport, showcasing efficiency in both passenger and cargo handling. A recent visit to the airport revealed the operational improvements being driven by modern equipment and upgraded facilities, signalling a decisive step towards positioning Zimbabwe as a regional aviation and cargo hub.
The Minister of Transport and Infrastructural Development, Honourable Felix Mhona, highlighted the role of newly acquired ground services equipment deployed by the National Handling Services (NHS) in enhancing operational efficiency. The fleet, already rolled out to Joshua Nkomo and Victoria Falls International Airports, demonstrates a strategic effort to scale up airport operations nationwide. “The unveiling of this equipment is essential for our upgrading and development of our airport ecosystem. The fleet of ground services equipment bolsters operational efficiency at the airport, which creates modern airport infrastructure,” Minister Mhona said.
Beyond operational efficiency, the expansion introduces amenities that reflect a modern and inclusive airport experience. A newly unveiled business lounge, aimed at high-profile travellers, was presented by the Minister of Tourism and Hospitality, Honourable Barbra Rwodzi. She emphasised the connection between upgraded airport facilities and the growth of the tourism sector, noting, “It is essential that our airport has facilities that resonate with all classes in the plane and there was no first-class lounge here, which we are very confident will cater for such a profile of travellers. This contributes to the development of our tourism and hospitality industry.”
For industry stakeholders, the airport upgrades represent more than passenger convenience, they are integral to the creation of a regional cargo hub. The President of the Shipping and Freight Forwarding Association of Zimbabwe, Mr Washington Dube, underscored the strategic importance of recapitalisation, explaining that efficient cargo handling with shorter turnaround times str8engthens Zimbabwe’s competitiveness in regional logistics, putting it on a trajectory similar to Kenya’s thriving cargo network.
The airport’s expansion also marks a leap in capacity, increasing annual passenger handling from 2.5 million to six million. With continued interventions aimed at achieving world-class standards, Robert Gabriel Mugabe International Airport is emerging not just as a national gateway but as a critical node in southern Africa’s aviation and trade corridors. The integration of modern infrastructure, advanced equipment, and service-oriented facilities paints a clear picture: Zimbabwe is laying the foundation for a future where its airports are catalysts for economic growth, regional trade, and tourism development.
