Victoria Falls to Host 10th AFI Aviation Week in Landmark Zimbabwe Debut

Victoria Falls is set to soar into global aviation prominence as it prepares to host the 10th Edition of the Africa-Indian Ocean (AFI) Aviation Week from May 27 to May 31, 2025. Convened by the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO), this high-level gathering will unite aviation leaders, policymakers, and technical experts from across Africa and beyond to accelerate aviation infrastructure development and improve air navigation services in the AFI region.

This marks the first time Zimbabwe will host the prestigious event, and preparations have reached a fever pitch under the stewardship of the Permanent Secretary for Transport and Infrastructure Development, Engineer Joy Makumbe. With more than 300 delegates expected from over 40 countries, the event underscores Victoria Falls’ growing influence as a hub for international dialogue and development.

The Victoria Falls International Airport (VFIA) has undergone a major operational and infrastructural refresh to ensure a world-class experience for incoming participants. Airport authorities, working alongside global aviation partners, have enhanced passenger flow systems, improved technical efficiency, and polished the airport’s readiness to host high-profile guests. The upgraded VFIA now stands as a bold testament to Zimbabwe’s vision for modernized, future-ready aviation infrastructure.

Engineer Makumbe hailed the event as a significant milestone, both for Zimbabwe and the region. “Zimbabwe’s hosting of the AFI Aviation Week reflects our commitment to regional integration and infrastructure advancement within the aviation sector. Victoria Falls is not just a venue, but a vision of what aviation-enabled development looks like,” she stated.

Beyond the boardrooms and technical sessions, delegates will be treated to the extraordinary setting of Victoria Falls—locally known as “Mosi-oa-Tunya,” or “The Smoke That Thunders.” The natural wonder provides a majestic backdrop for the week’s discussions, allowing participants to reflect on innovation and collaboration while immersed in one of Africa’s most iconic landscapes.

As elephants roam the Zambezi River banks and the sun sets over the Batoka Gorge, attendees will witness a rare harmony between technological advancement and environmental beauty. This dynamic contrast will make the 10th AFI Aviation Week a uniquely memorable experience.

The event’s agenda includes a robust lineup of high-level panel discussions, strategic roundtables, and technical workshops focused on critical themes such as air navigation services, safety oversight, infrastructure financing, and sustainable aviation development. These engagements are poised to drive regional consensus, foster partnerships, and pave the way for a more connected and efficient African aviation network.

With Victoria Falls at the center of this transformative dialogue, Zimbabwe is asserting its role as a rising force in continental aviation. The 10th AFI Aviation Week promises to be not just a summit of expertise, but a celebration of African excellence—taking off from the heart of one of the world’s natural wonders.