Construction of Pemba Airport finally kicks off

Unguja.  The Government of Zanzibar has officially commenced construction of the long-anticipated Pemba Airport, a major infrastructure project aimed at enhancing connectivity and unlocking the island’s economic potential.

Once complete, the new airport will enable direct landing of large aircraft on Pemba Island—eliminating the current need for passengers to land in Unguja and transfer via smaller planes or boats.

Deputy Minister for Works, Communications and Transport, Mr Nadir Abdulatif, confirmed the development on Tuesday, May 20, 2025, during a parliamentary session. He revealed that groundwork for the project began in November 2024, with the contractor currently finalizing the establishment of an operational base to facilitate the arrival of construction equipment.

The project is under the supervision of Dar al Handasah Consultants (Shair and Partners), a globally recognized engineering firm.

Responding to a question from Women’s Representative Ms. Chumu Kombo Khamis regarding the government's commitment to infrastructure development on Pemba, Mr Abdulatif reaffirmed the administration’s strategic focus on modernizing the island’s aviation facilities.

He noted that the contract for the project was signed on January 4, 2023, between the ministry and Brazil-based Propav Infrastructures, with the signing ceremony held at Zanzibar State House in the presence of President Dr Hussein Mwinyi.

The project entails a significant upgrade of the existing airport, including runway extension, construction of a new passenger terminal, and supporting infrastructure to accommodate Code C aircraft such as the Boeing 737-800.

The initiative is financed through a loan facility from UK Export Finance (UKEF), valued at €170 million (approx. Sh516.73 billion).

However, the project initially faced setbacks due to a legal dispute between Propav and its Tanzanian partner Mecco which stalled progress and led to temporary court injunctions. The Zanzibar High Court intervened in January 2024, suspending operations pending resolution.

The matter was later resolved amicably, with both parties reaching an out-of-court agreement on April 18, 2024, paving the way for Propav to proceed as the sole contractor.

With construction now underway, the government hopes the upgraded facility will significantly boost trade, tourism, and socio-economic growth on Pemba Island.