Online Reporter
Freeman Razemba
Senior Reporter
The Airports Company of Zimbabwe (ACZ) says the rehabilitation of Grand Reef Airstrip in Mutare is in line with International Civil Aviation Organisation (ICAO) best practices, which is transforming a military aerodrome to be civilian-compliant.
ICAO is a United Nations agency helps 193 countries to cooperate and share their skies for mutual benefit.
Since it was established in 1944, ICAO’s support and coordination have helped countries to diplomatically and technically realise a uniquely rapid and dependable network of global air mobility, connecting families, cultures, and businesses all over the world, and promoting sustainable growth and socio-economic prosperity wherever aircraft fly.
Grand Reef Airstrip in Mutare is undergoing rehabilitation ahead of the Sanganai/Hlanganani World Travel Expo, which will be running from September 10 to 12 in Manicaland Province.
This development comes after the Government recently said it is moving to resuscitate all the aerodromes countrywide.
On Thursday, Transport and Infrastructural Development Minister Felix Mhona, Tourism and Hospitality Industry Minister Barbara Rwodzi and senior Government officials visited Grand Reef Airstrip to assess progress.
The visit comes after the national airline, Air Zimbabwe, announced plans to introduce daily return flights between Harare and Mutare from September 8 to 14 to support the Sanganai/Hlanganani World Travel Expo.
Air Zimbabwe said the new service is part of its turnaround strategy aimed at expanding its route network, improving domestic connectivity and strengthening Zimbabwe’s tourism industry.
In a statement, ACZ said that by enhancing air connectivity, the Grand Reef Aerodrome becomes a pivotal asset.
“The project, with technical oversight from the Airports Company of Zimbabwe (Private) Limited (ACZ), is transforming a military aerodrome into a civilian-compliant, Category 3, unmanned aerodrome in line with ICAO best practices,” it said.
“This strategic infrastructure development is on track to receive inbound flights for the Sanganai/Hlanganani Kumbanayi World Tourism Expo, ensuring a seamless air gateway to the host city this September.
“The 2025 Expo in the World of Wonders shines a spotlight on Mutare and the majestic Eastern Highlands.
“By enhancing air connectivity, the Grand Reef Aerodrome becomes a pivotal asset, directly supporting the theme by providing international tourists and delegates with a direct, efficient point of entry to discover the region’s breathtaking scenic vistas, rich cultural heritage and diverse adventure tourism offerings.”
“This collaborative effort not only boost Zimbabwe’s aviation infrastructure, but also positions Mutare as a significant destination on the global tourism map, ready to welcome the world.”
