If I can put in my 2 cents.
If you contact the Zambian Operators by mail you are likely to get the same response.
We will always look for the local option first. If the crew are not there, then we look overseas. But we are then obligued by Immigration and DCA to adverstise locally. We then have to go through a rigourous proceedure for work permits.(Valid for 1 or maybe 2 years)
The system varies from year to year. In past years we have sometimes taken on up to 3 foreign pilots.
But the scrutiny of Immigration is not based on supply and demand, more on politics. Some years work permits are tough, other years very tough. It is NEVER easy. 2004 is very very tough.
This year we have fortunately mangaged to recruit 3 locals.
During 2003 Zambia did a complete overhaul of work permits. EVERY permit holder in ALL industries had to reapply, even if he had only got his permit 3 months before.
So it may be that those are the answers you are getting in Zim, but it does not mean it is a completely closed door. If an Operator wanted to start a C208 float plane on Kariba, then he might get clearance to hire foreign ( just an example, I know at least 2 float plane pilots in Zim).
Good Luck