Zimbabwe is planning the establishment of a new industrial zone near Robert Gabriel Mugabe International Airport as part of a proposed master plan aimed at expanding the Epworth suburb.
This development will include storage and aviation support facilities, positioning the area as a key logistics and economic hub.
The project is detailed in a master plan submitted by the Epworth Local Board to the Minister of State for Provincial Affairs and Devolution for Harare Province.
Currently, Zimbabwe’s primary international airport lacks adequate storage infrastructure and has limited aviation service providers.
The proposed industrial park is expected to significantly enhance logistics for airlines, importers, and traders who require warehousing and other aviation-related services.
Dr. Wilton Mhanda, Town Secretary of the Epworth Local Authority, confirmed the proposal and highlighted the potential economic benefits if the master plan receives government approval.
“We have submitted a master plan document outlining our vision for an aviation-focused industrial site near the airport. This will accommodate airlines and provide much-needed storage solutions,” said Dr. Mhanda.
He added that locating the facilities close to the airport will help reduce transportation costs for air cargo operators, minimize traffic risks, and improve overall operational efficiency.
Dr. Mhanda emphasized that considerations such as site accessibility, security, and the need for specialized infrastructure—like bonded warehouses or aviation fuel depots—have been factored into the plan.
“This development will help streamline operations for businesses reliant on air transport, giving them faster and more cost-effective access to storage and service facilities,” he said.
The proposed development is not just a local initiative—it aligns with national goals such as improved infrastructure, employment creation, and attracting foreign investment. According to Dr. Mhanda, the transformation of Epworth into an urban-industrial zone marks a significant step in Harare’s economic evolution.
“If approved, this project will contribute to Zimbabwe’s infrastructural growth and serve as a magnet for international investors looking to establish businesses linked to aviation services. It also presents job opportunities for our local residents,” he said.
Master plans are long-term, strategic frameworks that guide land use, housing, transportation, and economic development. They are typically created through a detailed process involving data collection, community consultations, strategy design, and alignment with national policies such as the “Call to Action – No Compromise to Service Delivery” initiative and the Zimbabwe National Human Settlements Policy.
To support effective implementation, some local authorities, including Epworth, are considering adopting digital tools like the Local Authority Digital System (LADS) for improved data management and revenue tracking.
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