PRESS RELEASE CLARITY ON SOLWEZI AIRPORT GULLY WORKS
Tuesday 14th January 2025 - Zambia Airports Corporation Limited (ZACL) wishes to clarify that Solwezi Airport is not facing closure, contrary to media reports suggesting that a developing gully may disrupt airport operations.
Solwezi Airport, the principal aviation hub in North-Western Province is certified by the Zambia Civil Aviation Authority (ZCAA) and remains fully operational. While gully erosion has been observed in the vicinity of the airport, this issue is being carefully monitored through regular inspections and mitigation measures. The erosion has not encroached on the runway or impacted flight schedules.
In addressing this challenge, ZACL in collaboration with the Ministry of Transport and Logistics (MTL) and the ZCAA, engaged key stakeholders including the Geological Survey Department under the Ministry of Mines and Minerals Development, and hydrologists from the Department of Water Affairs. These experts conducted a thorough assessment of the gully and provided key recommendations.
In 2024, these 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 in 2025.
As part of its long-term strategy, ZACL has also been allocated land in Solwezi for the construction of a new greenfield airport. Preliminary discussions and feasibility studies are currently underway, led by the Ministry of Transport and Logistics.
ZACL remains committed to its strategic goal of achieving aviation safety leadership by developing and maintaining airport infrastructure that meets international standards. We assure the public of our dedication to providing safe, efficient, and reliable air navigation and airport services, ensuring continued connectivity across Zambia, the region, and beyond.
STATEMENT ISSUED BY ZACL MANAGING DIRECTOR – MRS. NGOZA K. MATAKALA
About Zambia Airports Corporation Limited
Zambia Airports Corporation Limited was established in 1989 through the amendment of the Aviation Act, Chapter 444 of the Laws of Zambia which has been repealed and replaced by the Aviation Act No. 5 of 2016. It is also incorporated under the Companies Act No. 10 of 2017.
The Corporation’s mandate is to develop, maintain and manage the four designated international airports, namely Kenneth Kaunda in Lusaka, Simon Mwansa Kapwepwe in Ndola, Harry Mwaanga Nkumbula in Livingstone and Mfuwe, plus select provincial aerodromes and the provision of Air Navigation Services within the Zambian Airspace.
Mfuwe International Airport is one of the four (4) international Airports operated by Zambia Airports Corporation Limited (ZACL) and situated in Mambwe District of Eastern Province of the Republic of Zambia.
For further information contact:
Mweembe Sikaulu (Ms)
Communications and Brand Manager
mweembe.sikaulu@zacl.aero; cell: +26 0964 629463