By Costain Lakes | ZimEye | Zimbabwe’s potential to become a top destination for drone enthusiasts is still a question mark, despite steps taken by the Civil Aviation Authority of Zimbabwe (CAAZ) to regulate and develop the industry. Countries like New Zealand, Thailand, and the United States have embraced drones as a tool for tourism, photography, and commerce. Meanwhile, Zimbabwe is grappling with a more cautious approach to drone use, driven by stringent regulations and a developing infrastructure.

A Stringent Licensing System

Zimbabwe’s drone ecosystem is evolving but remains restrictive. CAAZ’s Senior Flight Operations Inspector, Mr. Alex Chiduwa, outlined the rigorous process for drone pilots, stating, “CAAZ has licensed over 400 drone pilots and certified over 15 companies to use drones. To obtain a drone license in Zimbabwe, aspiring pilots must follow a structured process.” This process involves enrolling in one of the three approved training schools in Harare, which “must meet the standards set by CAAZ, ensuring that the training aligns with international guidelines.”

While such measures demonstrate a commitment to safety and regulatory compliance, they also suggest that Zimbabwe has a long way to go to match the relaxed drone policies of countries like New Zealand and Thailand. For instance, in New Zealand, the open landscapes and sparse population offer ideal conditions for drone photography, attracting both tourists and professionals alike. Here, drones capture everything from glaciers to rainforests, making the country a haven for aerial photographers.

The Hurdles of Regulation

The need for a license even for recreational drone use in Zimbabwe may be another factor stifling the country’s drone potential. “Even if you want to use a drone for recreational purposes, you must have a license,” Chiduwa confirmed. This requirement applies to all categories of drone operations, including private, corporate, commercial, and non-profit uses. The bureaucratic hurdles don’t end there; all operators must also register their drones and obtain a pilot license.

These restrictions may deter casual users and small businesses from investing in drone technology, limiting its spread and the innovation it could bring to industries such as real estate, agriculture, and tourism. In contrast, countries like Thailand and the United States have carved out specific zones for drone use, allowing enthusiasts to operate more freely while still ensuring public safety. Thailand, for example, offers breathtaking locations like the remote island of Koh Tao, where restrictions are balanced with opportunities to capture stunning aerial shots of marine life and landscapes.

Challenges of Compliance

Compounding these issues, there are challenges with enforcement and understanding of regulations. Mr. Chiduwa revealed that he has “been called by the police more than 10 times to clarify situations where operators have been caught without the necessary documentation.” The fact that so many misunderstandings exist points to a potential gap in public awareness and education about the country’s drone laws.

This confusion could create an atmosphere of uncertainty that is not conducive to fostering a vibrant drone culture. In places like Bali, Indonesia, where drone use has become popular among tourists, certain areas have restricted flights due to privacy and safety concerns, but plenty of other locations remain open to exploration, allowing a balance between regulation and freedom.

Learning from the World’s Best

To join the ranks of the world’s most drone-friendly countries, Zimbabwe could look to places like the United States and Indonesia, where specific zones are designated for drone activity, making it easier for operators to navigate the legal landscape. In Maine, USA, for example, drone photographers enjoy diverse scenery across all four seasons—from rocky coastlines to lush forests—while adhering to simple but clear rules.

Countries like the United States have taken a progressive stance by creating a clear regulatory environment that encourages drone use while protecting privacy and safety. In California’s Malibu, a popular destination for drone photographers, operators can capture stunning footage of cliffy shores and wooded mountains, despite the region’s proximity to busy airspaces. This balanced approach offers a potential model for Zimbabwe to follow.

Zimbabwe’s Untapped Potential

Zimbabwe’s natural landscapes—its sprawling savannas, majestic mountains, and stunning national parks—offer immense potential for drone photography. With thoughtful regulation, the country could attract a new wave of tourism driven by aerial photographers looking to capture its beauty from above. However, for this to happen, the country must streamline its regulations, clarify compliance requirements, and foster a more welcoming environment for drone enthusiasts.

The question remains: Will Zimbabwe embrace this opportunity to align itself with the world’s best drone-friendly countries, or will it remain grounded by its stringent regulations? The answer may lie in the balance between safety and accessibility—a lesson learned from the likes of New Zealand, Thailand, and the United States. As Mr. Chiduwa and his colleagues at CAAZ continue their work, drone enthusiasts in Zimbabwe are left waiting, hopeful that the country’s skies will soon open up to the possibilities that drones bring.-ZimEye