Note to Editors: Please note Hannah Lidgett, MPL sound bite in English
The Democratic Alliance (DA) is rightfully concerned that despite R73.1 million having been spent to date on the upgrade and development of Mkuze Airport, the facility remains non-operational for scheduled commercial flights.
Mkuze Airport is strategically located in northern KwaZulu-Natal (KZN), serving as a potential gateway to some of our province’s most valuable tourism assets. This includes private game reserves, conservation areas and cross-border tourism routes to Eswatini and Mozambique.
A fully functional regional airport could unlock tourism growth, stimulate SMMEs, and create much-needed jobs in a region battling high unemployment. Yet, serious operational gaps remain.
Despite the significant capital investment, there are no committed airline routes. The airport also lacks key infrastructure required for commercial viability, including runway and approach lighting and a functional Instrument Landing System (ILS). This, amid alarming allegations that unauthorised aircraft have been landing at the airport after dark.
Sustainable commercialisation depends on achieving and maintaining the appropriate CAT 4 or CAT 5 status, yet compliance and operational readiness have not yet been achieved despite the hefty multi-million-rand price tag.
The DA calls on KZN’s Department of Economic Development, Tourism and Environmental Affairs (EDTEA) to table a clear, time-bound commercialisation plan, including securing confirmed airline partnerships, compliance status and a sustainable operational funding model.
With R73.1million in public funds having been spent, KZN’s people deserve to see assets working to grow the economy and create jobs. Northern KZN could also greatly benefit from the Mkuze airport.
The DA, as a responsible partner within the Government of Provincial Unity (GPU) will continue to fight for a growing provincial economy and the responsible use of public funds.