Air, rail services for Mutare

The Grand Reef Airport in Mutare is 68 percent complete, with contractors expressing confidence that the facility will be operational by next Tuesday, just in time for the Sanganai/Hlanganani/Kumbanayi World Tourism Expo scheduled for early September. The airport rehabilitation is part of a wider infrastructure development programme in Manicaland, aimed at positioning the province as a hub for tourism and trade.

Transport and Infrastructure Development Minister Felix Mhona, speaking during a tour of the airport and ongoing road projects in Mutare, said the transformation of Grand Reef reflects the government's commitment to delivering functional infrastructure. "Three years ago, Grand Reef was just a bush area. Today, it is progressing towards a fully functional airport that will boost tourism and connectivity," he said. He also highlighted other projects, including the construction of the Christmas Pass Bypass Road, the widening of the bridge near Sakubva Flyover, expansion works at Forbes Border Post, and preparations at Mutare Sports Club and Pavilion Grounds for the Expo. According to Minister Mhona, these developments are designed not only to support the Expo but also to provide lasting benefits for trade and tourism in the province.

Tourism and Hospitality Minister Barbara Rwodzi emphasised the importance of accessibility for tourism growth. She noted that the airport will make it easier for visitors to access Manicaland's attractions and that passenger rail services between Harare and Mutare will also be operational during the Expo, providing multiple transport options for visitors.

The rehabilitation contract for Grand Reef Airport was awarded to The Gap Company, whose representative, Shadowlit Sidija Ndou, confirmed that construction is progressing as planned. Key works on terminal buildings, offices, the runway, and apron widening are well underway, with the terminal roof expected to be completed within four days, ensuring readiness for Expo operations.

Air Zimbabwe CEO Engineer Edmund Makona said the airline had secured an ATR42-500 aircraft to operate the Harare-Mutare route during the Expo, with demonstration flights scheduled to begin on September 7 and full operations running until September 14. Engineer Makona added that the airline is exploring future routes connecting Mutare to Victoria Falls, Beira, Buffalo Range, and Kariba, reflecting strong demand for air connectivity.

Civil Aviation Authority of Zimbabwe (CAAZ) Director-General George Mashababe stated that his organisation is assessing the airport to ensure it meets minimum operational requirements for the Expo. While full certification will require further work after the event, preliminary assessments indicate the airport will be functional for the Expo period.

The Grand Reef Airport project, alongside ongoing infrastructure initiatives in Manicaland, underscores Zimbabwe's commitment to modernising transport networks, enhancing tourism accessibility, and creating long-term economic opportunities under the Second Republic.