PR Mphephu Airport.
By: Boitumelo Makhapheetja
The P.R. Mphephu Airport in Vuwani, located within the Collins Chabane Municipality in Malamulele, is set to reopen after being closed in 2021.
The airport was originally shut down due to ongoing financial struggles that began in 2014, resulting in poor audit outcomes.
The Airport is generally regarded as one of the region’s biggest “white elephants.” It was built during the era of the Venda Republic and named after its former president. In its heyday, it accommodated large and small aeroplanes as well as helicopters. Air shows were also held at the airport in the early 1990s.
Mokgadi Matli, Chief Executive Officer of the Gateway Airports Authority Limited (GAAL), explained that the decision to reopen the airport came after many requests from people wanting to use the facility.
Matli believes that the airport can play an important role in helping the Vhembe District grow its economy through increased tourism.
Matli also noted that, despite past challenges faced by the Polokwane International Airport, GAAL has learned valuable lessons.
She shared that these lessons have prepared GAAL to better manage the reopening of P.R. Mphephu Airport as part of its strategy to improve financial stability.
“Our goal is to make P.R. Mphephu Airport a hub that connects with other national airports. We’ve faced setbacks in the past, but they have taught us what we need to succeed. This knowledge will help us ensure that P.R. Mphephu achieves its potential,” Matli said.