Updated September 27, 2025:
After years of delays, the Revolutionary Government of Zanzibar (SMZ) has officially handed over the construction site for the Pemba International Airport. Moreover, it has also handed over the 43.5-kilometer Chake Chake–Mkoani road to the contractor. The significant hand over paves the way for the projects worth nearly $326 million to commence. Both contracts were awarded to Spain-based Propav Infrastructure. The firm was awarded the road in 2022 and the airport in 2023. However, implementation was stalled by compensation disputes and logistical challenges.
With the handover now complete, construction is expected to create more than 1,000 direct jobs for locals. It is also expected to transform Pemba’s economy by boosting tourism and improving connectivity. The projects will also play a fundamental role in attracting global investment. For the first time, large aircraft carrying up to 250 passengers will be able to land directly on the island. Once operational, the airport will handle 330,000 passengers annually. The rise will be an enormous boost from the current 100,000 domestic travelers served by the 1950s-era facility. Zanzibar has been steadfast in their zeal to promote tourism with projects such as the much anticipated Zanzibar’s Shivo Towers breaking ground this year, a monumental feat.
Significance of the Pemba International Airport Projects
The significance of the Pemba International Airport is one that cannot be underestimated as it will unlock the island’s limitless potential. In a written statement, Dr Mwinyi described the projects as a fulfilment of his government’s promise to “open up Pemba to the world.” Moreover, he stressed that airports, ports, and roads are vital to economic growth. “Completion of these projects will stimulate the economy, expand tourism, and ease daily activities for residents,” he said. Furthermore, he called on citizens to support smooth implementation. According to the Ministry of Infrastructure, the airport will cost €170 million (Sh494.46 billion). On the other hand, the road is valued at €93.3 million (Sh271.37 billion). Both projects are scheduled to be completed within three years.
The new airport will feature a modern passenger terminal and a 2,510-metre runway. It will also include facilities capable of accommodating airlines such as FlyDubai, Oman Air, and Airbus fleets. This will enable direct international flights. Permanent Secretary Dr Habiba Hassan Omar said 1,011 residents had been compensated Sh15.1 billion to clear the way. Only two are awaiting final payments. Funding is being provided through the UK’s United Kingdom Finance (UKEF), Deutsche Bank, and CitibankPropav Infrastructure CEO Cristiano Becuer said the project would be a game-changer for Pemba.
May 20, 2025: The Government of Zanzibar has officially kicked off the long-awaited Pemba Airport Construction Project. This undertaking is a key infrastructure project that is expected to generally unlock the island’s economic potential.
Upon completion, the Pemba Airport will allow direct landing of large aircraft on the island. This will therefore eliminate the current need for passengers to land land in Unguja and thereafter get transferred via smaller planes and boats.
Also read: Zanzibar Signs $428 million Deal to Expand Pemba Airport
Pemba Airport Construction Project Factsheet
Runway extension and widening: The existing runway, currently 500 meters long and 15 meters wide, will be extended to 2,510 meters long and 45 meters wide to accommodate Code C aircraft (such as the Boeing 737-800) and larger.
New passenger terminal: The existing terminal will be demolished and replaced with a new, modern passenger terminal. Initial designs indicate a terminal building in an area of 14,000 square meters. The new airport is projected to increase passenger handling capacity from the current 110,000 annually to 750,000 passengers per year.
Expanded apron: An expanded apron will be constructed.
Supporting infrastructure: This includes:
- Runway end taxiway loops.
- New aircraft rescue and firefighting facility.
- Electrical and airfield lighting substations.
- Air traffic control tower.
- Ancillary buildings (sewage treatment plant and utilities buildings).
- New access roads.
Project cost: approximately €170 million
Funding: The project is financed through a loan facility from UK Export Finance (UKEF).
Contractor: Propav Infrastructures (Brazil-based).
Project timeline:
- January 4, 2023: Contract signed between the Ministry of Works, Communications and Transport (Zanzibar) and Propav Infrastructures.
- November 2024: Groundwork for the project began.
- End of 2026 (projected): Expected completion of the airport development.
This development was confirmed by the Deputy Minister for Works, Communications and Transport, Mr Nadir Abdulatif on Tuesday, May 20, 2025 at a parliamentary session. Also, he revealed that the groundwork for the project commenced in November 2024. The contractor is currently winding up the establishment of an operational base to facilitate arrival of construction equipment.
Also read: Pemba Airport to undergo major upgrade
Supervisor of the Pemba Airport Construction Project
The airport construction project is being supervised by Dar al Handasah Consultants (Shair and Partners) which is an Engineering company that is recognised globally.
In response to a question from Women’s Representative Ms. Chumu Kombo Khamis regarding the commitment of Tanzania’s government to infrastructure development on Pemba, Mr Nadir Abdulatif reaffirmed the strategic focus of the administration on modernizing the aviation facilities of Pemba Island.
Furthermore, he noted that the signing of the contract of the project was done on January 4, 2023 between the Ministry and Brazil-based Propav Infrastructures. Also, the signing ceremony was conducted at Zanzibar State House in the presence of President Dr Hussein Mwinyi.
Scope of the Project
The project will involve a major upgrade of the existing airport. Additionally, there will be the extension of the runway and construction of a new passenger terminal. Lastly, there will be installation of supporting infrastructure that will accommodate Code C aircraft like Boeing 737-800.
The airport construction project is being funded through a loan facility from UK Export Finance (UKEF). It is expected to cost €170 million.
Also read: Dodoma’s $329 Million Msalato International Airport 85% Complete
Challenges Facing the Project
However, the project was initially faced with a number of setbacks due to a legal dispute between Propav and its Tanzanian partner Mecco. Furthermore, the dispute resulted to the stalling of the project’s progress and resulted to temporary court injections. Zanzibar High Court intervened the dispute in January 2024, suspending all operations pending resolution.
Fortunately, this matter was later resolved amicably, with both sides reaching an out-of-court agreement on April 18, 2024. This paved for the project allowing Propav to proceed as the official sole contractor.
Lastly, with the construction works on the airport now underway, the upgraded airport will significantly boost tourism, trade, and socio-economic growth on Pemba Island.
