Online Reporter
Sikhumbuzo Moyo recently in Binga
THE upgraded Binga Airstrip is recording a steady increase in aircraft movements, with monthly landings rising from about three to between four and eight since its transformation from a gravel strip into a standard tarred runway, authorities say.
The increased traffic is expected to boost tourism, improve connectivity and stimulate economic activity in the district, which Government has identified as a key economic and tourism corridor.
The airstrip was upgraded by the Rural Infrastructure Development Agency (RIDA) as part of the Second Republic’s infrastructure development programme aimed at accelerating socio-economic growth through improved transport networks.
In an interview, RIDA director-general Mr Christopher Shumba said the investment was already beginning to yield positive results.
“As you would have noted, the Binga Airstrip received a makeover that saw it being upgraded from a gravel strip to a standard tarred runway over the past year. This initiative by the Rural Infrastructure Development Agency was in keeping with the Second Republic’s drive to spur social and economic development across the country, with Binga being recognised as a key economic corridor,” said Mr Shumba.
He said aircraft landings had increased from an average of about three a month before the upgrade to between four and eight a month.
“While traffic levels may seem modest, the upward and consistent trend that we are witnessing this year reflects the growing confidence by aviation players in the improved infrastructure at the airstrip,” he said.
Mr Shumba said traffic volumes were expected to continue increasing as Binga strengthened its position as one of Zimbabwe’s emerging tourism destinations.
He said RIDA was complementing the infrastructure investment through Falcon Air, one of its strategic business units, which provides charter services for tourists, business travellers and local passengers.
“On our part, we are also supporting this growth through Falcon Air by offering charter services to tourists, local and business travellers. Over time, as more aviation players establish routes to Binga, this should contribute to increased utilisation of the airstrip while supporting tourism and broader local economic development within the district,” he said.
The upgraded airstrip is expected to improve access to Binga’s tourism attractions, including Lake Kariba, while enhancing opportunities for trade, investment and business travel.
The Binga Airstrip is among several infrastructure projects being implemented in the district under the Second Republic’s development agenda, guided by President Mnangagwa’s philosophy of leaving no one and no place behind.
Authorities believe improved air connectivity will play a key role in unlocking Binga’s tourism potential, attracting investment and strengthening the district’s contribution to national economic growth.
derick.khumalo