Harare – Intra-African air connectivity has jumped by 58 percent over four years, climbing from 14.5 percent in 2021 to 23 percent in 2025, as African nations accelerate implementation of the Single African Air Transport Market (SAATM), Zimbabwe’s Transport Minister has revealed.

Speaking at the SAATM Pilot Implementation Project Airshow in Harare today, Honourable Advocate Felix T. Mhona (MP) declared that the time has come to dismantle barriers impeding the continent’s aviation growth, including “excessive protectionism, market access restrictions, and non-tariff impediments.”

The Minister attributed the connectivity surge largely to expanded use of Fifth Freedom Traffic Rights, which allow airlines to carry passengers between two foreign countries as part of broader international route networks.

Zimbabwe Implements All Eight SAATM Measures

Minister Mhona confirmed that Zimbabwe has implemented all eight SAATM Concrete Measures since signing the Solemn Commitment in 2022, including reviewing Bilateral Air Services Agreements to comply with the Yamoussoukro Decision.

“Zimbabwe is currently reassessing all BASAs with SAATM Member States to ensure they are in compliance with the Yamoussoukro Decision,” he told delegates from across the continent.

The country also reaffirmed its support for the Lomé Ministerial Declaration of June 2026 on accelerating SAATM implementation and advancing accessible, affordable, connected and sustainable air transport in Africa.

Major Airport Expansion Projects Underway

Zimbabwe has invested significantly in aviation infrastructure through Public-Private Partnerships, rehabilitating and modernising three major international airports:

· Robert Gabriel Mugabe International Airport – passenger capacity increased from 2 million to 6.5 million annually
· Joshua Nkomo International Airport – Bulawayo
· Victoria Falls International Airport

The country has also invested in modern airspace management, including a Secondary Surveillance Radar System and upgraded Air Traffic Control systems. An Aeronautical Message Handling System is currently being implemented to improve air navigation services.

SAATM Critical for AfCFTA Success

Minister Mhona described the SAATM as “one of the critical enablers of the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA),” facilitating seamless movement of people, goods, services and investment across the continent as Africa moves towards Agenda 2063.

He urged Member States yet to fully embrace the initiative to join, emphasising that “only through collective commitment and coordinated action can we accelerate Africa’s aviation transformation agenda.”

Calls for Urgent Action on Barriers

“Gatherings of this nature provide us with appropriate platforms for sharing experiences, exchanging ideas and strengthening cooperation among African nations,” the Minister said, urging delegates to “critically assess our progress and identify areas which require urgent attention.”

He called for continued removal of barriers to connectivity, including visa and tax restrictions, to unlock the full benefits of continental integration.