ZACL Clarifies: Solwezi Airport Not Facing Closure

Zambia Airports Corporation Limited (ZACL) has clarified that Solwezi Airport is not facing closure.

This is contrary to reports suggesting that a developing gully may disrupt airport operations.

ZACL Managing Director, Ngoza Matakala, says while gully erosion has been observed in the vicinity of the airport, this issue is being carefully monitored through regular inspections and mitigation measures.

Ms. Matakala said the erosion has not encroached on the runway or impacted flight schedules.

She said in addressing this challenge, the Corporation, in collaboration with the Ministry of Transport and the Civil Aviation Authority, engaged key stakeholders including the Geological Survey Department under the Ministry of Mines and Minerals Development and hydrologists from the Department of Water Affairs.

Ms. Matakala said the experts conducted a thorough assessment of the gully and provided key recommendations.

Last year, the efforts culminated in the completion of a detailed investigation, followed by the development of engineering designs for remedial works.

Implementation of these solutions is scheduled to begin this year.

Meanwhile, Ms. Matakala said as part of its long-term strategy, ZACL has also been allocated land in Solwezi for the construction of a new greenfield airport.

She said preliminary discussions and feasibility studies are currently underway, led by the Ministry of Transport and Logistics.