Zambia Airports Corporation Limited (ZACL) has issued a formal call for investment proposals to support the development of an ambitious Airport City at Kenneth Kaunda International Airport (KKIA) in Lusaka. The initiative forms part of a long-term strategy to diversify revenue streams and unlock the commercial potential of extensive land holdings situated beyond the terminal precinct.
Guided by a comprehensive Land Use Plan for KKIA, ZACL is seeking public and private sector partners to develop modern, commercially viable infrastructure that complements aviation activity and strengthens Zambia’s position as a regional transport and logistics hub. Investors are invited to design, engineer, procure, construct, finance and operate a variety of projects under long-term commercial arrangements.
Strategic Background
ZACL, a state-owned company established in 1989, manages Zambia’s four international airports, seven provincial airports and three strategic aerodromes, while also providing air navigation services across the national airspace. The Corporation is now leveraging its significant land assets to attract investment that enhances the airport experience, creates new economic opportunities and contributes to national development.
The Airport City concept presents a diversified development model centred on commercial, institutional and recreational uses. Proposed clusters include medical and educational facilities, hospitality and entertainment venues, housing and leisure resorts, light manufacturing and warehousing, sports and recreation facilities, and high-value commercial offerings such as retail, financial services, research centres, MICE (Meetings, Incentives, Conferences and Exhibitions) infrastructure and agro-processing hubs. The aim is to create an integrated, self-sustaining ecosystem that both supports airport operations and stimulates wider economic activity.
Investment Requirements and Eligibility
ZACL will evaluate investment proposals based on core principles, including demonstrated synergy with aviation services, commercial viability, liquidity, and clear proof of financing. Proposals must also show socio-economic value through job creation, trade facilitation, improved connectivity and enhanced market linkages.
Investors may submit detailed concept notes for initial evaluation and must include key company information such as registration details, ownership structure, project cost, intended business activity, implementation timelines and supporting documentation. These documents must include a business proposal or pre-feasibility study, evidence of financing, certified company records, shareholder information, identification documents and a layout plan for the proposed development.
A non-refundable proposal fee of ZMW 10,000 is required upon submission.
To qualify, international investors must commit at least USD 500,000 to a project, while local investors must meet a minimum threshold of USD 50,000. Additional criteria include management capability, risk and environmental management planning, compliance with Zambian law, and alignment with ZACL’s strategic priorities. Preference will be given to proposals with strong export potential and demonstrated environmental, social and governance (ESG) benefits.
Evaluation and Due Diligence
All proposals will undergo a three-stage assessment process. Initial screening will ensure compliance with submission and eligibility requirements. Shortlisted proposals will then be reviewed in detail against the full set of evaluation criteria. Successful candidates will progress to a comprehensive due-diligence phase, covering technical, commercial, financial and legal considerations.
Proposals must align with ZACL’s broader vision of revenue diversification, enhanced aviation service delivery and Zambia’s goal of becoming Southern Africa’s transport and logistics hub.
Submission Procedures
Investors may submit proposals either physically or electronically. Hard copy submissions must include three professionally bound documents delivered in sealed envelopes to the ZACL Managing Director at Kenneth Kaunda International Airport. Soft copy submissions may be emailed to orea.lcaz@slasoporpesudnalAIKK with the appropriate subject line.
Only fully compliant submissions will be considered, and participation does not guarantee selection. ZACL will acknowledge receipt of proposals, although detailed feedback may take time due to expected submission volumes.
The deadline for submission is 30 January 2026 at 17:00 CAT.
This call represents an opportunity for investors to participate in one of Zambia’s most significant aviation-linked commercial development initiatives.
