Staff Writer
Namibia has reaffirmed its commitment to support women in aviation during the Women in Aviation Namibia summit held in Windhoek.
The event brought together participants from government, industry, academia and civil society to discuss ways to increase women’s participation in the aviation sector.
In a statement delivered by Prime Minister Elijah Ngurare, President Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah said Namibia will continue aligning national policies with regional and international frameworks that promote gender equality.
“We will continue aligning national policies with regional and international frameworks promoting gender equality, including our obligations under SADC and the African Union,” she said.
The president said progress must be monitored by tracking the number of women entering aviation training, advancing into leadership and contributing to innovation.
“We need to track the number of women entering aviation training, advancing into leadership and driving innovation. This occasion should inspire renewed determination and strengthen partnerships between government, industry, academia and civil society. It should also remind every Namibian girl that her dreams are not bound by tradition but fuelled by opportunity.”
Nandi-Ndaitwah also cautioned against favouritism at the expense of boys, saying opportunities should be based on merit.
“When I was sworn in as the fifth president of the Republic of Namibia last year, I said, ‘I believe my election will inspire women from all walks of life to assert themselves. I was elected on merit, not because I am a woman. As women, we should not seek positions of responsibility simply because we are women; we should do so because we are capable members of society who can hold those roles.’”
The president said women working in aviation have shown that ability and commitment are what matter.
“You are in aviation not because you are women, but because you excel exceptionally as human beings. You are capable in your own right; you believe in yourself, and you are demonstrating that given an opportunity, you can overcome social and cultural obstacles to develop your talents and realise your full potential. On a personal note, as a little girl, my dream was to become a pilot. Although that dream did not manifest, I stand tall today in seeing Namibian women who have pursued this dream. I am very proud of you.”
Minister of Works and Transport Veikko Nekundi said Namibia’s policies support greater inclusion across sectors.
“Our national development blueprint, Vision 2030, envisions a Namibia characterised by prosperity, harmony, peace, and equality. Central to this vision is the empowerment of women across all sectors of society. Aviation, as a driver of economic growth and international connectivity, must reflect these values. By promoting inclusivity and dismantling barriers, we ensure that women contribute fully to innovation, safety, and competitiveness in aviation,” Nekundi said.
Minister of Gender Equality and Child Welfare Emma Kantema said women remain under-represented in technical and leadership roles in the aviation industry.
She said this includes positions such as pilot, engineer, air traffic controller and executive. Kantema said addressing the gap requires structured training pathways, mentorship and accountability.
