By Victor Simz

ZAF Origins: From Air Wing to Air Force

The story of Zambia's Air Force began even before independence. 

When the Federation of Rhodesia and Nyasaland dissolved on 31st December 1963, the Northern Rhodesia Air Wing (NRAW) was born. Within months, it would evolve into the Northern Rhodesia Air Force, laying the foundation for what would soon become the Zambia Air Force.

Just weeks earlier, on 27th November 1963, a high-level delegation of officers — an Air Commodore, a Group Captain, and a Wing Commander — had toured Livingstone to establish the new Air Wing. Their task was daunting: to create an air force from scratch. Fortunately, a group of officers agreed to transfer from the Royal Rhodesia Air Force in Salisbury (Harare), bringing with them the experience and discipline that would shape Zambia's first aviators.

To support this bold venture, the Government began constructing new air bases at Lusaka and Livingstone airports, initially operating from temporary airstrips. These sites would soon become the cornerstones of Zambia's aerial defense and transport network.

The Northern Rhodesia Air Force took on essential roles right away. Its aircraft provided:

  • Air transport for government officials traveling across the vast new nation.

  • Support for ground forces, working closely with the army and police.

  • Internal security operations, helping to maintain order during the fragile final days of colonial rule.

  • Mercy flights, carrying the sick and injured from remote rural areas to urban hospitals, where advanced care was available.

Then came 24th October 1964 — the day Zambia was born. Alongside the raising of the national flag, the Northern Rhodesia Air Force proudly took on its new name: the Zambia Air Force (ZAF).

Recognition of the Zambia Air Force

At independence in 1964, the formal recognition of the Zambia Air Force (ZAF) marked a turning point in the nation's defence and governance. For the new Republic, establishing the Air Force was not only about aircraft and bases — it was about ensuring proper civil-military control under the authority of the Government.

Through official gazetting, the Zambia Air Force was placed on a firm legal and institutional foundation. The recognition defined its three components:

  • The Regular Force – the permanent, professional core of the Air Force.

  • The Auxiliary Air Force – a supporting wing for times of heightened need.

  • The Air Force Reserve – trained personnel available to serve whenever the public interest required.

This framework provided for all aspects of Air Force life: enlistment, training, transfer to the Reserve, discharge, and discipline. It was a clear statement that Zambia's Air Force would operate within a structured, accountable system, balancing professionalism with democratic oversight.

Back to Museum