Did you know? The Zimbabwean elite forces captured Kinshasa International Airport (N’djili Airport) in less than 24 hours after deploying in August 1998

Timeline of the Airport Capture (August 1998)

1. Early August 1998 – A rebellion breaks out against Laurent-Désiré Kabila, backed by Rwanda and Uganda. Rebels quickly advance toward Kinshasa.

2. 13-14 August 1998 – Zimbabwean paratroopers and special forces are deployed to Kinshasato defend the capital.

3. Within Hours of Landing –

• Zimbabwean troops secure Ndjili Airport, preventing rebels from using it as a strategic entry point.

• Paratroopers and mechanized units engage in heavy fighting with rebel forces who had infiltrated parts of the city.

4. By 15 August 1998 – The airport and surrounding areas are fully under Zimbabwean control, securing Kinshasa's main supply route.

Significance of Capturing Ndjili Airport

• Prevented Kinshasa's fall – If the rebels had taken the airport, they could have received more reinforcements and supplies.

• Ensured air support for Kabila – Allowed Zimbabwean, Angolan, and Namibian forces to land reinforcements and supplies.

• Shifted the war in Kabila's favor – Zimbabwe's rapid intervention blocked the rebels' advanceand gave Kabila's government time to regroup.

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