Minister of Public Works and Transport Chief Ndlaluhlaza Ndwandwe says the country will continue to invest in the regulatory frameworks, physical infrastructure, institutional capacity and service offerings needed to support a thriving aviation industry.
Speaking during the launch of the new direct flight to Zambia by Eswatini Air on Wednesday, the minister said aviation drives tourism, attracts foreign direct investment and supports trade, thereby creating wealth and employment.
He applauded Eswatini’s partnership with government and the people of Zambia, adding that the cooperation which made the route possible reflected the spirit of African solidarity and mutual benefit principles, which he said underpin regional relationships.
“We are grateful for the warmth, openness and professionalism of our Zambian counterparts and look forward to deepening the partnership in the years to come,” said the minister.
He said government remained committed to ensuring that Eswatini Air operates at the highest international standards.
The minister added that they were encouraged by the airline’s ongoing preparations for the International Air Transport Association operational safety audit (IOSA) certification, which would further reinforce its credibility and strengthen future partnerships.
Furthermore, he said the kingdom reaffirms its commitment to the aviation sector as a strategic enabler of national development, noting that infrastructure connecting the country to the world is not a luxury, but a necessity.
Zambia’s Minister of Transport and Logistics Frank Tayali said the introduction of the route linking Kenneth Kaunda International Airport and King Mswati III International Airport aligns directly with their government’s strategic agenda to enhance connectivity, facilitate trade and position Zambia as a regional aviation hub.
Tayali stated that for the people of Zambia and Eswatini, whether travelling for business, employment or leisure, the route offers a more efficient and seamless travel experience.
He added that it removes the inconvenience of extended transit times through third countries and introduces a direct, reliable link between the two markets.
“Air transport remains a critical enabler of regional development. It connects economies, stimulates tourism, supports investment flows and facilitates the efficient movement of goods as well as people,” he said.
He noted that the launch of the aircraft would undoubtedly contribute to increased tourism traffic and stronger economic ties between the two nations.
Tayali further stated that government remains steadfast in its commitment to creating an enabling environment for the aviation sector to thrive.
This, he said, includes continued investment in modern airport infrastructure, progressive policy frameworks that support airline operations, and the strengthening of regional and international partnerships.
To ensure the sustainability of the route, he said efforts would be made to expand connectivity, with potential for passengers to travel onwards from Lusaka to destinations such as Nairobi and other regional hubs.
