AIR TRAFFIC CONTROLLERS AT THE FOREFRONT OF AVIATION STRATEGY

The Deputy Minister of Transport and Infrastructural Development, Hon. J.K. Sacco, yesterday officially opened the 36th IFATCA Africa & Middle East Regional Meeting at the Peniel Retreat Centre in Victoria Falls, launching a strong message about the nation’s commitment to human capital and modernization in its aviation sector.

In his keynote address, Deputy Minister Sacco positioned the nation’s air traffic controllers (ATCs) as the “backbone” of Zimbabwe’s aviation strategy. He highlighted the pivotal role of the Aviation Training Academy of Zimbabwe (ATAZ), established in 2023, in rapidly building professional capacity and ensuring compliance with ICAO obligations. This deliberate focus on human capital development was presented as fundamental to achieving new heights in national aviation progress and safety standards.

Hon. Sacco further detailed Zimbabwe’s comprehensive infrastructure modernization drive, which includes the revamping of three international airports and the installation of critical systems like the new Secondary Surveillance Radar. He stressed that these strategic investments are not just about hardware; they are about aligning Zimbabwe with global standards through active participation in ICAO plans and sustainability initiatives like CORSIA. He pointedly described Sustainable Aviation Fuels as the “low-hanging fruit” necessary for achieving net-zero carbon emissions goals. This blend of infrastructure and sustainability has already contributed to a clear resurgence in air traffic, reflecting growing confidence in Zimbabwe as a key regional hub for business, tourism, and investment.

The conference was graced by high-level regional and national officials who underscored the theme of collaboration. The Minister of State for Provincial Affairs and Devolution for Matabeleland North, Hon. R. Moyo, warmly welcomed the delegates, emphasizing that dependable air traffic services are the backbone of the province’s thriving tourism sector and broader economic growth.

Regional solidarity was strong. Nigeria’s Minister, Hon. Festus Keyamo, championed the core message, stating that meeting rising demands requires investing “not only in technology, but even more importantly in people,” aligning with Nigeria’s Renewed Hope Agenda. Ministers from Ghana and representatives from Uganda also reinforced the spirit of cross-border cooperation.

The resounding message from all speakers was clear: the future of African and Middle Eastern aviation hinges on the strategic recruitment, training, and retention of a skilled air traffic control workforce. By prioritizing investment in people and technology, the region can secure its skies for generations to come, fostering a safer and more efficient future for all.