HARARE – The Civil Aviation Authority of Zimbabwe (CAAZ) on Monday named Elijah Chingosho as its new director general, replacing David Chawota who was ousted over corruption allegations.

Announcing the appointment, CAAZ board chairman Theophilus Gambe said Chingosho “has established a strong record of success, which has put Zimbabwe on the African and indeed, global aviation map.”

“Chingosho is an aviation leader with decades of experience in aircraft engineering, business turnaround, organisational business development, safety and security systems in aviation, aviation regulatory development and strategic management, and has led successful teams in the private, government and non-profit sectors,” Gambe said.

The CAAZ board hopes Chingosho, a former secretary general and chairman of the Nairobi-based African Airlines Association (AFRAA), will turn Zimbabwe into a “regional hub of world-class aviation services.”

“I’m honoured to be appointed to serve this important organisation and continue working to develop the aviation industry in Zimbabwe. With the support of the team at CAAZ, we will efficiently and professionally serve…” Chingosho said.

Chingosho worked as the general manager for engineering at Air Zimbabwe between 1999 to 2001.

Margaret Mantiziba was acting director general since 2015 when Chawota was first sent on forced leave and later arrested over alleged corruption relating to a €28 million tender.