The Ministry of Works and Transport has called for an increased focus on prioritising seamless airport integration to boost economic activity by streamlining processes and improving efficiency.
The Ministry also emphasised the importance of partnerships within the aviation sector to enhance regulatory oversight and safety.
Namibia’s commitment to enhancing airport infrastructure and fostering economic activities through aviation integration took centre stage at the AviaDev Africa conference in Windhoek.
Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Works and Transport John Mutorwa emphasised the critical role of seamless airport integration in driving national economic development.
“Our focus must be on achieving seamless integration of our airport infrastructures to support economic activities,” Minister Mutorwa affirmed.
He highlighted the Ministry of Works and Transport’s dedication to assisting the Namibia Airports Company (NAC) in fulfilling its national responsibilities effectively.
The AviaDev Africa conference, themed “Igniting Connections, Propelling Growth,” gathered stakeholders from across Africa and beyond to explore partnerships aimed at enhancing aviation infrastructure and connectivity.
Mutorwa said the conference is a great platform for fostering meaningful partnerships critical to the growth of African airports and airlines.
“At the continental level, African states must prioritize aviation development to accelerate intra-Africa trade and economic growth,” Mutorwa stated.
He underscored the importance of initiatives like the Single African Air Transport Market (SAATM) under the African Continental Free Trade Agreement (AfCFTA) to strengthen regulatory oversight and enhance consumer protection within the aerospace sector.
The AviaDev Africa conference also highlighted Namibia’s strategic objectives in air connectivity and economic development.
“Our policy intention is to expand various sectors of our national economy, including agriculture, tourism, and infrastructure, in a balanced and sustainable manner,” Minister Mutorwa outlined.
He highlighted the pivotal role of the aviation sector in facilitating economic growth, job creation, and skills development.
Namibia Investment Promotion and Development Board Chief Executive Director, Nangula Uaandja, emphasised the need for collective action to harness Africa’s resources effectively.
Addressing challenges such as health constraints and barriers to the free movement of people and goods, Uaandja highlighted the importance of connectivity within Africa.
“We need to be more connected as Africans. Currently, we enjoy African goods and cultures less among ourselves compared to the global community,” Uaandja said at the AviaDev Africa conference.
She advocated leveraging Africa’s diverse cultures and resources through initiatives like the Single African Air Transport Market to foster economic growth and cultural exchange.
Acknowledging the significance of collaborative efforts, Uaandja urged stakeholders to unite in realising Africa’s aspirations.
“We must come together to discuss and implement strategic steps to achieve our economic dreams,” she said, emphasising the role of capital, ideas, talent, and influence in shaping Africa’s future.
