Online Reporter
Sunday Mail Reporter
THE US$153 million expansion and upgrading of the Robert Gabriel Mugabe International Airport in Harare is now complete, a development that has improved efficiency during this festive season.
Completion of the works has seen the opening of all international terminals to travellers, expansion of handling capacity and installation of electronic gates (E-gates), which have an entry and exit module that synchronises traveller information and biometrics, allowing fast clearance of travellers.
Modern passenger facilitation equipment has been installed, including new baggage handling systems, more check-in counters, advanced security equipment and other enhancements to accommodate the higher volume of travellers.
A state-of-the-art private pavilion that offers exclusive amenities catering for high-ranking officials, including private lounges, meeting rooms and dedicated immigration or customs processing areas has also been completed.
Airports Company of Zimbabwe (ACZ) public relations and communications manager Mr Tonderai Mangombe said they were committed to enhancing the aviation landscape of Zimbabwe.
“Over the past year, ACZ has achieved significant milestones that underscore its commitment to enhancing the aviation landscape in Zimbabwe.
“One of our most noteworthy accomplishments is the completion of the Robert Gabriel Mugabe International Airport development project.
“This initiative has modernised our facilities and positioned us as a competitive player in the regional aviation sector,” he said.
Mr Mangombe said the enhancement of infrastructure and connectivity attracted new businesses and stimulated the local economy.
“The upgrades have greatly improved passenger experiences and operational efficiency, resulting in increased air traffic and tourism,” he said.
“Alongside a general rise in flight frequencies among various airlines operating in Zimbabwe, we have also welcomed two new carriers, Uganda Airlines and Fly Namibia, further advancing our ambition to establish ourselves as the regional hub for aviation services by 2030.”
Mr Mangombe said ACZ was developing an airport master plan that will establish goals and parameters for the strategic development of all the major airport infrastructure and business operations.
“As we look ahead to 2025, ACZ is committed to maintaining this momentum,” he said. “We have several exciting projects lined up for the year, including the construction of solar farms, major airport infrastructure development, enhancement and intensive business development initiatives aimed at maximising the utilisation of Zimbabwe’s airports.”
Chief immigration officer Ms Respect Gono said the installation of an online border management system (OBMS) has been a game-changer, especially during this festive season.
“The Department of Immigration has been well-prepared and ready for seamless movement of people during the festive season. We installed an OBMS and ensured the availability of adequate staff complement at all the ports to cope with the increased volumes,” she said
“e-gates streamline the border crossing process, reducing waiting times and minimising human error and interaction.
“The system can process travellers more efficiently while maintaining high-security standards. Less human interactions are also expected to limit corruption, thereby making travellers more compliant.”
