Zimbabwe reviews air service agreements to dismantle protectionism in African aviation

This policy shift, announced by Transport and Infrastructural Development minister Felix Mhona, aligns with the continent-wide push for the Single African Air Transport Market SAATM, which aims to create a single aviation market by removing restrictions on competition among African carriers. The reforms signal Zimbabwe's move from tightly controlled bilateral agreements to a more open market, allowing airlines to expand routes and increase frequencies. Mhona emphasized the need to dismantle barriers such as excessive protectionism and market access restrictions.

Zimbabwe is ensuring its agreements comply with the Yamoussoukro Decision, an African Union framework for liberalizing air transport. Officials believe these reforms will make Zimbabwe a more attractive destination and strengthen its position as a regional aviation hub. This policy overhaul follows significant public investment in aviation infrastructure, including the expansion of Robert Gabriel Mugabe International Airport, Victoria Falls International Airport, and Joshua Nkomo International Airport.

The expansion of Robert Gabriel Mugabe International Airport increased its annual passenger handling capacity from two million to 6.5 million. By liberalizing market access, Zimbabwe aims to improve commercial returns on these investments and