New Airport For Mutare Text by Martin Chemhere

The growth of the tourism industry in Mutare, in the Eastern Highlands has for a long time been hindered by several things. These include limited air connections, especially to major international hubs, making the region less accessible to tourists compared to other destinations and high cost of air travel, particularly for budget travellers, who are potentially discouraged from visiting the region.

Other setbacks for the region are infrastructure limitations as a result of poor road conditions and a lack
of public transport options. Another likelihood is that the region might not be effectively marketed to potential tourists, leading to low awareness and interest even with adequate air connectivity.

There is also the appeal of slow travel and adventure due to some tourists deliberately choosing slower overland travel options to experience the region’s scenery and culture more deeply, rather than relying on air transport.

It’s also worth noting that air transport can also be a facilitator of tourism growth by enabling faster and more convenient access to the region for certain types of tourists.

Additionally, improving air infrastructure could be part of a broader strategy to address other hindrances, such as supporting the development of local tourism businesses and promoting sustainable practices.

However, the good news is that the government of Zimbabwe plans to build a new, contemporary airport by moving the Grand Reef Airport from the city of Mutare to Mutasa South District.

Adequate flat land, necessary for the development of airports has been cited by the government as the reason for the relocation of the Grand Rief Airport near Mutare to Mutasa South District.

The government has already made initial steps towards the establishment of the airport, with Transport and Infrastructural Development Minister Felix Mhona, accompanied by other government officials touring the proposed new airport site.

Significant progress has been made by the Airports Company of Zimbabwe in carrying out feasibility studies for the new airport project.

The feasibility studies are expected to be completed by the end of this year 2024.

With Manicaland being a significant tourism hub, the new airport should ease the movement of travellers to and from the region, as travelling time by air from Harare will be about 30 minutes only.

Furthermore, the government is complementing the construction of the new airport with the concurrent rehabilitation of roads in Mutare.

Text by Martin Chemhere

From DESTINATION ZW