THE CIVIL AVIATION AUTHORITY EYES BIGGER AIRCRAFT FOR NAMWALA BEEF EXPORTS

The Civil Aviation Authority, CAA, is planning to extend the Namwala District Aerodrome from 1.8 to 2.5 kilometres to accommodate bigger aircraft and boost beef exports.

CAA Board Chairperson, Captain Gabriel Kunda, says the expansion will allow aircraft capable of transporting up to FIVE tonnes of beef to operate from the district, in line with Government’s Grow Zambia Agenda.

CAA Vice Board Chairperson, Major General Henry Chiwaya, says Namwala has a bright economic future, with beef exports projected to reach ONE BILLION US DOLLARS.

He says the airfield has already received a facelift under Operation Blue Lugwasho, involving levelling, compacting, gravelling and fencing to keep cattle off the runway.

CAA Director General, Captain Derrik Luembe, says the visit has confirmed Namwala’s economic potential, noting that the district is home to more than 30 percent of Southern Province’s cattle.

And Namwala District Commissioner, Ephraim Shandavu, says the CAA’s interest in the district brings renewed hope for development and economic growth.