Esther Rose
Latest reports are that the Eastern Cape government is
considering leasing the Bhisho airport to the president and the royal family.
Upgrades amounting to U.S.$1 million was paid for by the UAE
president so that he could have easy access to his privately-owned game
reserve, for a quiet holiday to mark the end of the Muslim holy month of
Ramadaan on Saturday April 22, 2023.
Eastern Cape Premier Oscar Mabuyane applied to the
Department of Home Affairs to declare Bulembu Airport a port of entry for the
UAE visitors to land directly from their country.
The airport is being seen as an opportunity to generate
revenue and to create jobs for a province that has a very high unemployment
rate. The UAE is known for its investments in ports and airports worldwide.
However, there are fears that the Bhisho airport may be used for military
purposes or become a hub for illegal activities.
The Eastern Cape government is also working to strengthen
trade relations with the UAE in education, agriculture, renewable energy, oil
and gas, research and innovation, as well as partnerships in the aviation
economy.
It follows a visit by the premier to the UAE in March 2023,
where he looked into trade and investment opportunities, as well as potential
cooperation in renewable and green energy, oil and gas, manufacturing,
agro-processing and industrialisation.
The plane landing wsa reminiscent of the Gupta family who
landed their plane at the Waterkloof Airforce military base in Pretoria 10 years
ago so that they could attend a family wedding.
Bulembu Airport is occupied by the SA military's airborne
infantry unit and the SAPS Airwing, according to News24.