ACZ Champions Community Growth and Engagement in Victoria Falls

VICTORIA FALLS – In a steadfast commitment to fostering sustainable development, the Airport Company Zimbabwe (ACZ) is reaffirming its role as a community-centric organisation, deeply invested in the growth and well-being of the areas surrounding its operations.

Mr. Ronnie Masawi, theVictoria Falls International Airport Manager, emphasised that the company’s philosophy extends far beyond the runway. “ACZ is not just about managing an airport; we are about building and nurturing the community we operate in,” stated Mr. Masawi. “Our goal is to see tangible growth and prosperity within our local communities, and we believe this is achieved through active engagement and partnership.”

This commitment is realised through a multi-faceted approach focusing on employment, education, and ongoing dialogue.

A primary pillar of this strategy is local employment. ACZ prioritises hiring individuals from the local community, provided they meet the necessary criteria and qualifications. This policy ensures that economic benefits generated by the airport are directly injected into the local economy, creating careers and fostering skills development.

Recognising the unique environmental challenges posed by its location, ACZ has initiated proactive community clean-up campaigns in Lupinyu. The drive educates residents on the critical importance of maintaining a clean environment, a concern magnified by the area’s close proximity to the airport and the high volume of people in nearby shopping areas.

The educational component highlights a serious safety risk: the danger of litter being sucked into aircraft engines. This powerful message connects local actions directly to national safety and security, encouraging community ownership over the issue.

To ensure a consistent and open channel of communication, ACZ holds quarterly meetings with local stakeholders and community leaders. “These meetings are crucial,” Mr. Masawi explained. “They create a platform for dialogue, foster a good working relationship, and build a mutual understanding of our shared goals and challenges.”

Looking to the future, ACZ is eager to strengthen these community ties further. The company is looking forward to engaging with the newly installed Chief Mvutu, seeking his guidance and collaboration to ensure their initiatives are aligned with the community’s needs and cultural values.

Through this comprehensive strategy, ACZ Victoria Falls is positioning itself not merely as a transport hub, but as a dedicated partner in the community’s journey toward a cleaner, safer, and more prosperous future.