By Takudziridzwa Nyama
Tragedy has struck the Zimbabwe Defence Forces (ZDF) as Air Lieutenant Nesbert Tambudza lost his life in a training accident near Guinea Fowl in Gweru.
The incident occurred on February 6, 2025, when the Karakorum-8 (K-8) jet trainer aircraft he was flying crashed.
The unfortunate accident happened when the pilot was on a solo consolidation general handling navigation training.
The accident occurred about 5 kilometers East of Guinea Fowl and on impact with the ground the aircraft was extensively damaged. There were no civilian casualties and damage to property on the ground.
General PV Sibanda, Commander of the ZDF, expressed deep sadness at the loss of Air Lieutenant Tambudza, saying the news was received with heavy hearts. He stated that the entire ZDF mourns the loss of such a talented pilot and extended heartfelt condolences to the family, relatives, friends, and colleagues of the deceased officer.
“On behalf of Officers, men and women of the ZDF, the Commander Zimbabwe Defence Forces wishes to express his heartfelt condolences to the family, relatives, friends and colleagues of our departed Officer, Air Lieutenant Tambudza,” expressed Commander Sibanda.
“Air Lieutenant Tambudza was a young pilot who had demonstrated immense potential and was therefore selected to undergo a jet flying conversion training course at Number 2 Squadron, Josiah Tungamirai Air Force Base in Gweru. At the time of his death, he was in the final phases of training on the K-8 jet.”
The Air Force of Zimbabwe has constituted a Board of Inquiry to investigate the cause of the accident.
Details regarding the funeral parade and burial for Air Lieutenant Tambudza will be released in due course.