Staff Writer
The chief executive officer of the Namibia Airports Company (NAC), Bisey /Uirab says aviation remains a key driver of economic growth, regional integration and global connectivity across Africa.
He made the remarks at Aviation Week Africa 2026 in Windhoek, held under the theme “Linking Africa: Partners for Growth”.
/Uirab said aviation supports trade, tourism and job creation and helps connect African economies to global markets.
He said Africa’s size, dispersed populations and natural barriers make air transport important for moving people, goods and services.
Airports, he said, form the backbone of the aviation system. They connect countries within Africa and link the continent to international markets.
/Uirab said airports support airlines, service providers, concessionaires and government agencies within the aviation value chain.
He referred to the African Union’s Agenda 2063, which aims to build a more connected continent. He said aviation plays a central role in this plan.
He also pointed to the Single African Air Transport Market, which seeks to improve connectivity through open air transport across African countries.
At a global level, he noted the role of the International Civil Aviation Organization in supporting safety and development in aviation. He also referred to the Airports Council International for its role in setting standards for airport operations.
Uirab said Namibia’s development plan, including the sixth National Development Plan, places infrastructure at the centre of growth.
He said airports in Namibia serve as key gateways linking the country and the region to global markets.
He said the Namibia Airports Company is implementing its integrated strategic business plan for 2026 to 2031. The plan includes upgrades to terminals, runways and airside capacity.
He said the plan also includes digital systems to improve passenger processing and service delivery.
One of the major projects is a new terminal at Hosea Kutako International Airport under a Build, Own and Transfer model.
Other airports are also set for upgrades to handle growing passenger and cargo demand.
/Uirab said infrastructure alone will not drive growth. He said partnerships between airlines, governments, regulators, investors and communities are needed to strengthen the sector.
He said Namibia aims to use its location to position itself as a gateway between Southern Africa and international markets.
He said building aviation links is not only about routes but also about strengthening cooperation across the sector to support long-term economic growth.
