The Minister of Transport and Infrastructural Development, Honourable Advocate Felix T. Mhona, presided over the momentous event of the dual commissioning of the official Khami Prestige Lounge and the unveiling of newly acquired Ground Support Equipment for National Handling Services at Robert Mugabe International Airport today.
This occasion marks yet another milestone in the unwavering commitment to the strategic recapitalization of National Handling Services (NHS) and to the overall quality of aviation infrastructure.
Hon. Mhona mentioned that this milestone is not only significant for Robert Gabriel Mugabe International Airport but also showcases the commitment to providing world-class service across the aviation value chain, from passenger experience to airline operations.
“The Khami Prestige Lounge, now open at RGMI Airport Gate 11 of the International Terminal, is a first-class facility aligned with global trends and tailored to meet the expectations of the modern traveler, thus setting a new benchmark for airport hospitality in Zimbabwe.
“Inspired by our own Khami Ruins, Khami Prestige celebrates Zimbabwe’s identity, incorporating local design and cultural elements, helping to create an authentic and memorable experience for travelers from around the world,” said Hon Mhona.
Directly contributing towards achieving the outcomes of NDS 1 under the Transport, Infrastructure & Utilities, Hon Mhona highlighted that this facility will create a robust and efficient transport system that underpins Zimbabwe’s journey towards achieving an upper middle-income society by 2030.
“The NDS1 recognizes that a strong transport system is vital for economic growth, as it facilitates trade, attracts investment, and supports the overall economy.
“In addition to the Lounge, we are also commissioning critical ground support equipment, a major step forward in the recapitalization of our national aviation infrastructure,” he said.
The support equipment included modern baggage handling equipment, transporters, baggage tow tugs and support vehicles essential to efficient airport operations.
Some of the equipment has already been dispatched to Victoria Falls Airport and J.M.N.Nkomo International Airports.
These investments are crucial in ensuring that airlines operating in and out of Zimbabwe receive timely, reliable, and professional service.
This directly enhances operational efficiency, on-time performance and airline satisfaction, thereby making Zimbabwean airports more competitive in the region.
The Minister of Transport and Infrastructural Development further emphasised on how these developments reflect on the unwavering commitment to achieving a prosperous and empowered upper-middle-income society by 2030.
“In line with our Vision 2030 as championed by our great leader His Excellency, the President of the Republic of Zimbabwe, Cde. Dr. E.D. Mnangagwa, the handling equipment increases the volume of work thus supporting business travel, tourism, trade and economic development, while creating jobs and stimulating demand for local services.
“The Khami Prestige Lounge and essential ground support equipment are sending a clear signal that Zimbabwe is open for business and that it is serious about modernizing airports to global standards,” he said.
Special appreciation was extended to the National Handling Services Chairman, Advocate Godwin Nyengedza, and the Board, their management, aviation sector partners, and all stakeholders involved in this transformative journey, as their efforts are not only enhancing service delivery but also helping to reshape the image and performance of Zimbabwe’s aviation and tourism sectors.
Story by Chiedza Nybadza
