RG Mugabe International Airport: Infrastructure Expansion for Zimbabwe’s Development
In 2019, the Airports Company of Zimbabwe (ACZ) was created after the unbundling of the Civil Aviation of Zimbabwe (CAAZ). ACZ currently manages and operates a network of eight strategically located airports around the country. Also, it is currently undertaking a US$153 million upgrade and refurbishment of the Robert Gabriel Mugabe International Airport, the main gateway into Zimbabwe. Some of the new features include capacity increase, new and improved infrastructure and increased tourism.
Robert Mugabe International Airport for improved capacity
Moreover, after completion, the Robert Gabriel Mugabe International Airport will grow from its current capacity of 2.5 million passengers per year to nearly 6 million. This means more foreign airlines will launch flights into Harare. Therefore, exposing Zimbabwe to eager investors who want to widen their reach in African countries and dedicated tourists and explorers. This is also good for tourism and the nation’s development. It will improve tourist traffic in Zimbabwe. The airport is part of essential infrastructure critical for development. Additionally, this expansion also means expansion of cargo in and out of the country. Therefore, this is good for the economic advancement of not only Harare, but Zimbabwe as a whole.
Currently, there is prioritisation of the high-impact projects in infrastructure development. This is pivotal in modernising Zimbabwe. The upgrading of the Robert Gabriel Mugabe International Airport is one of the government’s signature projects. Additionally, the project is also under the China Jiangsu International, the organisation that refurbished the Victoria Falls International Airport. This airport services the resort town and surrounding tourist destinations.
Improved and new features
Additionally, as part of the ongoing renovation and upgrade of the airport, two new air-side shuttle buses have been put into operation. These airport shuttle buses would make moving around easier for passengers. Also, they will ensure seamless turnarounds by processing arrivals quickly and departing on schedule. They will also clear up space and avoid delays. The rehabilitation process also includes three additional aero bridges. It also includes a new fire station, a modern terminal building and a new VVIP pavilion.
Also, the upgrade work for RG Mugabe International airport temporarily halted due to the Covid-19 outbreak. However, the target for the completion of the project is June 2023. The outbreak set expansion back prolonging the much-awaited completion. Resumption of work means the airport will have new aero bridges as well as a secondary radar system. Additionally, the baggage handling system and docking system will be part of the airport. This is just part of the new upgrades the airport has. For one who knows what the airport was like before, this is a major upgrade for it.
Finally, the Robert Mugabe International Airport’s completion will be a much-needed move in the attainment of vision 2030. The creation of the ACZ after the unbundling of the CAAZ is making this possible. ACZ’s management and operation of a network of eight strategically located airports around the country will help open up Zimbabwe’s airspace for more development.
