Mbada Diamonds yesterday handed over office premises built to the tune of US$556 000 to the Civil Aviation Authority of Zimbabwe at Harare International Airport. Speaking at the handover ceremony, Transport, Communications and Infrastructural Development Minister Nicholas Goche said such infrastructural developments were pivotal to development.

He welcomed the use of one of the buildings as a training facility.

"This is the first structure in the Civil Aviation Authority's strategic bid to establish the aviation training academy of Zimbabwe," said Minister Goche.

"The academy will provide a foundation for the growth and development of the aviation industry in Zimbabwe and abroad."

Minister Goche said the other building allocated to the Zimbabwe Republic Police would enhance the safety and security of aviation operations. He encouraged the police and CAAZ to continue working together for the benefit of the country.

The buildings were constructed by Mbada Diamonds using their resources in exchange for a piece of land they requested for the extension of their business premises at the airport.

"My ministry had no reservations with granting Mbada Diamonds space at Harare International Airport to carry out its commercial activities," said Minister Goche.

"Mbada is proving to be a good business and development partner and has worked together with CAAZ in other successful initiatives."

Mbada Diamonds chairman, Dr Robert Mhlanga said the initiative was meant to ensure that diamonds that passed through the airport were well protected.