16 Namibian companies express interest in reviving national airline

WINDHOEK, 16 MAY (NAMPA) - A total of 16 Namibian companies have expressed interest in contributing to the establishment of a national airline for Namibia.
This is according to the spokesperson of the Ministry of Works and Transport, Julius Ngweda.
“The ministry deeply appreciates the enthusiastic response and the willingness of the public to assist in this significant national endeavour. The ministry wishes to inform the public that a dedicated technical committee has been established to guide the process of setting up the national airline. This committee is comprised of individuals with specialised knowledge and expertise in various areas of aviation, ensuring a thorough and informed approach to this complex undertaking,” Ngweda said.
Namibia’s former national airline, Air Namibia, was liquidated in 2021 and plans to establish a new national airline by December 2026 were announced by the government earlier this year.
Minister of Works and Transport, Veiko Nekundi, said last month that the new airline will contribute significantly to the country’s economy.
“Air Namibia is not coming back. We are not reviving Air Namibia. We are bringing back a national airline and not Air Namibia. Those are two different things. Air Namibia is gone. It’s killed by those who want to kill it but a national airline will be in Namibia,” Nekundi said.
Ngweda told Nampa on Friday that the technical committee has been actively engaged in deliberating the establishment of the airline within the allocated time frame.
“These meetings are crucial in laying the groundwork for a sustainable and successful national carrier that will serve the best interests of Namibia. It is important to reiterate that the establishment of a new national airline is a matter of national interest. The ministry and the technical committee are fully cognisant of the high level of interest that exists within the nation at large, encompassing both valuable collaborative suggestions and a simple desire to contribute,” Ngweda added.
He explained that while the ministry is grateful for the proactive engagement of the public, the technical committee will strategically reach out to the nation for advice and assistance when required.
The committee will initiate these outreach efforts at the appropriate stages of the process to ensure that public input is effectively integrated into the planning and development.
“There is thus no need for individuals to reach out on a daily basis,” Ngweda remarked.
(NAMPA)
EB/HP