ZAMBIA AIRWAYS’ NEW ROUTES TO BOOST TRADE AND REGIONAL INTEGRATION

BUSINESS FOCUS WITH BALEWA

Africa’s economy is picking up speed, thanks to efforts to work together with neighboring countries and make trade easier. Zambia, like many other African countries, is joining in by teaming up with its neighbors through agreements like the Tripartite Free Trade Area (TFTA). This agreement is all about making it easier to buy and sell goods and services across borders.

Connectivity plays a key role in regional integration and trade for Zambia. By improving transportation links, such as roads, railways, and air routes, Zambia can more efficiently connect with its neighboring countries and beyond. This enhanced connectivity reduces the time and cost of moving goods and people across borders, facilitating increased trade and economic cooperation. In essence, connectivity serves as the backbone of regional integration, enabling Zambia to leverage its geographical position and actively participate in regional and global trade networks.

The recent announcement by Zambia Airways regarding the launch of new three-times-weekly passenger services to Dar es Salaam, Tanzania, and Nairobi, Kenya, is good  news for traders in Zambia, particularly those from rural villages such as Chikankata, Kalomo, Nalolo, and Sikoongo and other places.

For traders from these villages, who often undertake long and arduous journeys by road to conduct business in Tanzania, this new air route represents a significant improvement in accessibility and convenience. Instead of enduring days and nights on the road, they now have the option to travel swiftly and comfortably by air, saving valuable time and resources.

The introduction of direct flights to Dar es Salaam and Nairobi opens up a world of opportunities for these traders. It not only reduces travel time but also facilitates smoother logistics and trade operations. With quicker access to key markets in Tanzania and Kenya, traders can expand their businesses, explore new opportunities, and establish stronger commercial ties across borders.

Moreover, the affordability and frequency of the three-times-weekly flights ensure that traders can plan their trips more efficiently, without having to worry about the unpredictability of road travel or the high costs associated with alternative modes of transportation.

Beyond the immediate benefits to traders, the enhanced connectivity offered by Zambia Airways’ new routes also holds promise for broader economic development in rural areas. By facilitating increased trade and commerce, the airline contributes to the growth of local economies, creates employment opportunities, and stimulates overall prosperity.

In light of these considerations, the announcement of Zambia Airways’ new passenger services to Dar es Salaam and Nairobi is not only good reading but also makes sound business sense for traders in Zambia, especially those from rural villages who stand to gain the most from improved accessibility and connectivity. As air travel becomes more accessible and affordable, the potential for economic empowerment and growth in these communities is boundless.

Zambia Airways chief executive officer Thomas Woldesenbet said the inaugural flight, designated as ZN 504, is set to take off on June 27, 2024.

According to Woldesenbet, operating on Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Saturdays, the new flight would connect Lusaka with Dar-Es-Salaam and Nairobi, offering convenient travel options for passengers.

He says the flight schedule was tailored to suit travelers’ needs and ensures efficient connections between the three destinations.

Mr Woldesenbet said the network expansion is reflective of the airline’s mission of enhancing regional connectivity and making air transport services affordable for a wide range of customers.

He was of the view that the launch of services to Dar es Salaam and Nairobi will further strengthen the ties between Zambia and the two east African countries and foster trade and tourism.

Generally, the introduction of this three-times-weekly passenger service between Lusaka, Dar es Salaam, and Nairobi would unlock a plethora of economic opportunities across sectors. in the following ways:

Enhanced air connectivity translates into smoother trade flows. With direct flights between Lusaka, Dar es Salaam, and Nairobi, businesses can now expedite the movement of goods and services. This newfound accessibility encourages bilateral trade and strengthens commercial partnerships between Zambia, Tanzania, and Kenya. Moreover, streamlined logistics reduce transit times and costs, thereby enhancing the competitiveness of regional businesses.

The tourism industry stands to gain immensely from Zambia Airways’ expanded network. Dar es Salaam and Nairobi are not only vibrant cultural hubs but also gateways to renowned tourist destinations in Tanzania and Kenya, such as the Serengeti National Park and the Maasai Mara Reserve. The convenience of direct flights encourages more travelers to explore these attractions, thereby stimulating tourism revenue and supporting local communities dependent on the sector.

Improved air connectivity serves as a catalyst for foreign direct investment (FDI). As Zambia strengthens its links with Tanzania and Kenya, investors are presented with a more accessible and attractive market. The ease of travel facilitates business meetings, site visits, and investment scouting, fostering cross-border collaborations and encouraging capital inflows into key sectors such as infrastructure, manufacturing, and technology.

The expansion of Zambia Airways’ route network generates employment opportunities both within the airline itself and across related industries. From pilots and cabin crew to ground staff and maintenance personnel, the operation of new routes necessitates a workforce expansion. Additionally, the ripple effects of increased tourism and trade contribute to job creation in sectors such as hospitality, retail, and transportation, thereby boosting household incomes and socioeconomic development.

By strengthening air connectivity within the East African region, Zambia Airways plays a critical role in promoting regional integration and cooperation. Closer ties between Zambia, Tanzania, and Kenya promote dialogue, knowledge sharing, and joint initiatives aimed at addressing common challenges and maximizing collective opportunities. This collaboration would extend beyond economic realms to encompass areas such as education, healthcare, and cultural exchange, fostering a sense of unity and solidarity among neighboring nations.

At the heart of this positive development lies the undeniable importance of enhanced customer care.

In a competitive industry, superior customer service can serve as a key differentiator for airlines. Failure to meet customer expectations can erode Zambia Airways’ competitive edge, making it more challenging to attract and retain passengers compared to rival carriers that prioritize customer satisfaction.

Negative experiences with Zambia Airways’ customer service can deter potential tourists and business travelers from choosing Zambia as a destination or conducting business within the country. This can have broader implications for the tourism industry and trade relations, affecting economic growth and development.

A decline in customer satisfaction due to poor service can directly impact revenue for Zambia Airways. Passengers may be less inclined to book flights with the airline, leading to decreased ticket sales and overall revenue generation. Additionally, dissatisfied customers are less likely to make additional purchases, such as in-flight amenities or ancillary services, further impacting profitability.

Word-of-mouth travels fast, especially in the age of social media. Negative experiences with customer service can tarnish Zambia Airways’ reputation, deterring potential customers from choosing the airline. This can have long-term consequences on the airline’s brand image and competitiveness in the market.

Therefore, improving customer care for Zambia Airways is not only beneficial for the airline itself but also for the broader economy and reputation of Zambia. By delivering exceptional service and experiences to passengers, the airline can drive tourism, promote trade, and contribute to the country’s economic development and global connectivity. Therefore, investing in customer care should be a priority for Zambia Airways as it strives for excellence in the aviation industry.

The Author is an Economist and a multiple international Award Journalist.