Ethiopian Airlines has finalized shareholders agreement with the Government of Zambia for the re-launch of its national carrier, Zambia Airways.

Under the agreement, the Government of Zambia will be the majority shareholder with 55% and Ethiopian will have 45% stakes in the airline.

The launching of Zambia Airways will enable the travellers in Zambia and Southern African region to enjoy greater connectivity options, thereby facilitating tourism and stimulating socioeconomic growth.

When relaunched, Zambia Airways will initially serve domestic and regional destinations before embarking on international flights.

The establishment of multiple hubs in Africa is a strategy of Ethiopian under its Vision 2025. It currently operates hubs in Lomé (Togo) with ASKY Airlines and Lilongwe (Malawi) with Malawian.

Ethiopian Airlines is the fastest growing Airline in Africa. In its over 70 years of operation, it has become one of Africa’s leading carriers, unrivalled in efficiency and operational success.

Zambian Airways was the flag carrier of Zambia, based in Lusaka, Zambia. It suspended operations on January 10, 2009.