| Work Detail |
Extension work on the Robert Gabriel Mugabe International Airport (Zimbabwe), being undertaken by Chinese construction company China Jiangsu International, is on schedule with nearly 22 percent work already completed.
The US$153 million project, scheduled for completion by the end of 2021 through a concessionary loan from China Exim Bank, is expected to increase traffic, cargo volumes and passenger numbers.
Upon completion, the airport will have the capability of handling 6 million passengers annually, similar to Zambia’s Kenneth Kaunda International Airport (KKIA).
Works under the extension project include- expanding the international terminal building and aprons, installation of four new air bridges along with the construction of a VVIP pavilion. It also includes upgradation of the ground lighting system, communication systems and service equipment such as ambulances, universal towing vehicles, airside buses and fire-fighting vehicles.
Transport and Infrastructural Development Minister Joel Biggie Matiza recently expressed satisfaction on the progress made so far.
“In August last year we started the upgrade of Robert Mugabe International Airport because it is the one that facilitates the movement of goods and persons — tourists and investors — among others.” Minister Matiza said. “We were given a total 36 months to finish this project and so far we have covered the first year. To date we are on 22 percent and I can safely say that the project is running smoothly and we can surely meet the deadline.”
“They started by levelling the VVIP side. That side (the VVIP) will have two bridges for passengers and this means there will be no disturbances when travellers come in.” he added. “After finishing the VVIP side, they will then move to the other side. A lot of work is taking place there. The car park is also being improved.”
The modernisation project is in line with the government’s policy of rehabilitating the aviation infrastructure across the country to boost economic growth with plans of turning into a middle-income economy by 2030.
While outstanding debts owed by the previous government to China had initially threated to derail the venture, the project’s funding was unlocked by President Mnangagwa during his State visit to Beijing last year |
