CAAZ hunts for investors

Business Reporter
THE Civil Aviation Authority is looking for investors who will fund the construction of an integrated cargo centre at the Harare International Airport to the tune of US$30 million.
CAAZ is considering public private partnerships (PPP’s) or Build Operate Transfer (BOT) strategies for the infrastructure project.
The cargo centre will have a dedicated air side and landslide access facilities like taxiways, roads and parking area.

Work on the project started three year ago but was stopped due to a lack of capital.
In an interview with The Herald Business, CAAZ general manager Mr David Chawota said the company was not looking for funding but they were looking for partnerships so that the project can be completed.

“CAAZ is still looking at how best the construction of the cargo centre can be done.
“So far we are considering public private partnerships or build operate transfer initiatives as a way of raising the capital needed for the project.

“We think those companies willing to partner will construct the centre and operate it.
They will therefore get their money after a period of time, which we think is a better strategy,” he said.

The cargo centre sits on land measuring 4 000 square metres.
Mr Chawota said many companies have made inquiries towards the project with intentions to take part in the construction of the cargo centre.

“Most companies have expressed interest towards the project, so at the moment the only development is that we have received inquiries,” he said.

CAAZ in conjunction with other local companies are currently embarking on projects that make the movement of goods and cargo more convenient.