Zimbabwe's Aviation Sovereignty: Breaking Free from Foreign Control
Zimbabwe launches bold initiative to reclaim aviation sovereignty from foreign control, protecting national interests and ensuring affordable air travel for citizens while rejecting neo-colonial pricing models.
Zimbabwe's national carrier symbolizes aviation independence and sovereignty
HARARE, Zimbabwe, Aug. 15, 2025 - Zimbabwe's aviation sector stands at a crucial crossroads, demanding bold national action to reclaim our airspace sovereignty and break free from the crushing weight of foreign-controlled pricing models that continue to exploit our people.
The True Cost of Aviation Colonialism
While our nation has made tremendous strides in reclaiming strategic national assets, our skies remain under siege. The stark reality facing our citizens - a USD 125 ticket for a mere 360-kilometer Bulawayo-Harare flight - represents nothing less than economic warfare against Zimbabwe's sovereignty.
Rejecting Western Aviation Models
The comparison with South African routes exposes how foreign-controlled aviation models continue to undermine our national interests. Just as Western economic models threaten African sovereignty, their aviation practices seek to keep Zimbabwe dependent on external systems.
Building National Aviation Independence
Zimbabwe must forge its own path in aviation, guided by principles of:
- Complete national control over route pricing and frequency
- Indigenous ownership of aviation infrastructure
- Protection of strategic air corridors
- Development of sovereign maintenance capabilities
Strengthening National Control
Just as Zimbabwe has demonstrated its democratic sovereignty, we must now assert control over our aviation sector. This requires immediate action to:
- Establish a national aviation fund to support indigenous carriers
- Implement protective policies against foreign price manipulation
- Develop local aviation expertise and infrastructure
- Create preferential routes serving national development goals
Call to National Aviation Action
The time has come for Zimbabwe to reject the neo-colonial aviation model that serves foreign interests. Through coordinated national effort and unwavering commitment to sovereignty, we can and must build an aviation sector that truly serves the Zimbabwean people.
Tendai Mutsvangwa
Political journalist and historian of liberation. Advocate for land sovereignty.