HARARE, November 13, 2023 – Air Zimbabwe, the national carrier, has announced the appointment of Edmund Makona as its new Chief Executive Officer, effective November 1, 2023.
The decision was made by the board of directors in accordance with Section 14 (4) (b) of the Public Entities Corporate Governance Act.
Makona, who has been acting in the capacity of CEO since April, takes on the role with a wealth of experience in regional and international aviation.
The announcement was made in a statement released by Air Zimbabwe on Monday.
“The Air Zimbabwe (Private) Limited board of directors is pleased to advise all stakeholders that Mr. Edmund Makona has been appointed as the Chief Executive Officer of the National Airline with effect from November 1, 2023.
“Mr. Makona, has been appointed in terms of Section 14 (4) (b) of the Public Entities Corporate Governance Act for an effective five-year term. At the time of his appointment, Mr. Makona was the acting chief executive officer,” the statement read.
Edmund Makona profile
Makona brings over 38 years of experience to the role of Air Zimbabwe chief executive, having served as an aviation consultant with a background in aeronautical engineering.
He holds a type-rated license as an aircraft engineer and is recognized for his expertise in aviation quality, safety, and security.
Additionally, he has played roles as a trainer for aircraft engineers and pilots in ground school.
His involvement in the aviation sector extends to leadership roles, having served as both president and executive committee member of the African Airline Association.
Currently, Makona holds the position of ambassador of the Single African Air Transport Market (SAATM) for the Africa Southern Region, contributing to the African Union (AU) initiative on the liberalization of African skies.
In their statement, the Air Zimbabwe board expressed confidence in Makona’s ability to contribute significantly to the national carrier’s vision.
“The board is keen on unlocking value from Mr. Makona’s diverse expertise and vast experience. We are confident that he will complement the Board’s vision to turn around the national carrier and reposition it to become a strategic, competitive, and viable national airline for the country,” the board stated.
