Air Force Pilot Dies in Gweru Aircraft Crash

GWERU — The Zimbabwe Defence Forces (ZDF) has announced the tragic death of Air Lieutenant Nesbert Tambudza, a young Air Force of Zimbabwe pilot, who perished on Thursday after the Karakorum-8 (K-8) jet trainer aircraft he was flying crashed near Guinea Fowl in Gweru.

The fatal accident occurred during a solo consolidation general handling navigation training exercise, the Zimbabwe Defence Forces (ZDF) said in a statement. The crash site, located about five kilometers east of Guinea Fowl, saw the aircraft extensively damaged upon impact. Fortunately, no civilian casualties or damage to property were reported.

In a statement, Commander of the Zimbabwe Defence Forces General PV Sibanda expressed deep sorrow over the loss. “The news of the death of Air Lieutenant Tambudza has been received with heavy hearts…On behalf of the officers, men, and women of the Zimbabwe Defence Forces, I extend heartfelt condolences to his family, friends, and colleagues. This is a devastating loss not only to his loved ones but to the entire Air Force and nation,” he said.

Tambudza was undergoing jet flying conversion training at Number 2 Squadron, Josiah Tungamirai Air Force Base in Gweru, and was in the final stages of his training on the K-8 jet.

“He was a young and talented pilot with immense potential,” said General Sibanda. “His dedication, skill, and promise made him a standout officer in the Air Force of Zimbabwe. We mourn his passing and honor his contribution to our forces.”

The Air Force of Zimbabwe has convened a Board of Inquiry to investigate the cause of the crash.