By Nevanji Munyaradzi Chiondegwa
Harare – In a ceremony marking Zimbabwe’s commitment to infrastructure development and economic growth, His Excellency, President Emmerson Dambudzo Mnangagwa, officially inaugurated a new VVIP Pavilion at the Robert Gabriel Mugabe International Airport in Harare today. The pavilion stands as a key milestone in the airport’s ongoing expansion project.
President Mnangagwa, speaking at the inauguration, emphasized the pavilion’s significance as more than just a structure. He highlighted it as a symbol of the Second Republic’s vision for a modern and prosperous Zimbabwe, aligning with the nation’s broader development strategy.
“Today, we gathered specifically for the commissioning of the Robert Gabriel Mugabe International Airport VVIP Pavilion, which was a portion of the Expansion Project. These involved the expansion of the current apron areas to accommodate more aero bridges; a new fire station; and the rehabilitation and expansion of the International Terminal Building as well as the modernization of the Domestic Terminal Building,” stated the President, outlining the extensive scope of the project beyond the pavilion.
The pavilion, a key component of this broader airport expansion, boasts a unique design reflecting Zimbabwe’s cultural heritage. Its “whole-glass” structure and roof, forming a distinctive ‘Z’, pays homage to the nation’s identity. The incorporation of granite pillars and chevron walling, reminiscent of the iconic Great Zimbabwe Monument, further underscores this commitment to national pride.
President Mnangagwa expressed his profound gratitude to the People’s Republic of China, under the leadership of President Xi Jinping, for extending support under the Comprehensive and Strategic Partnership Framework. He affirmed, “China was with us in our fight for independence and freedom, they are with us in the present as we scale up our quest to improve the quality of life for our people, and they shall remain a close and dependable ally of Zimbabwe, into the future,” acknowledging China’s steadfast support.
He also commended the various stakeholders involved, including government ministries, departments, agencies, contractors, and the Airports Company of Zimbabwe, for their concerted efforts in ensuring the project’s timely completion, particularly amidst the challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic.
Beyond its aesthetic appeal, the pavilion is equipped with state-of-the-art aviation safety and security systems. These new systems, as highlighted by the President, will guarantee comprehensive coverage and monitoring of Zimbabwean airspace, aligning it with global standards.
The President acknowledged the successful testing of the modernized airport during the recent 44th Ordinary SADC Summit of Heads of State and Government, expressing his appreciation for the collaborative efforts that ensured the Summit’s success.
Highlighting the importance of the project, President Mnangagwa said, “The completion of this facility is in keeping with the goal of providing world-class aviation services to visitors of our beautiful country, Zimbabwe.” He also noted the government’s commitment to upgrading the Communication, Navigation, and Surveillance/Air Traffic Management systems.
President Mnangagwa emphasized the importance of air transport in promoting national economic development, particularly through tourism, trade, and attracting foreign direct investment. He reiterated his government’s commitment to providing world-class aviation services to visitors.
In his closing remarks, President Mnangagwa urged Zimbabweans to take pride in their nation’s infrastructure and work together to maintain its high standards. He emphasized the need for national development through unity and hard work, stating, “In conclusion, may this facility stand as a constant reminder that through unity, hard work, in a peaceful environment we can realise great successes.” He urged citizens to take pride in their nation and contribute to its progress, adding, “We need not merely admire good facilities in other countries, instead, we must build and modernise our country, ourselves, brick by brick and stone upon stone.” He also stressed the importance of road safety, urging citizens to adapt to the emerging realities of a developing nation and prioritize safety on the roads.
The inauguration of the VVIP Pavilion marks a significant step towards enhancing Zimbabwe’s image on the global stage, signaling its commitment to progress and development.
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