Speaking at the African Air Transport Convention & Expo, Namibia’s Deputy Minister of Works and Transport, Hon. Hans Haikali has stated that “SAATM must now move from policy commitment to practical implementation” noting that this requires “concrete action to remove restrictive market access barriers, improve the use of traffic rights, promote fair and transparent competition and support the development of viable intra-Africa routes.”
The Minister reiterated that: “Namibia fully supports a more accessible, connected, affordable, sustainable Africa air transport market. SAATM must now move from policy commitment to practical implementations.” He called for the reduction of air transport costs via a “harmonized approach to aviation taxes, charges and fees” and stronger coordination between transport, finance, tourism and trade authorities.
Hon. Haikali noted that facilitation was another critical area to be addressed, harping that “visa restrictions, slow passenger processing, insufficient cargo clearance and fragments other procedures could limit the growth of African aviation.” The Minister posited that “if air transport is to become the real driver of integration, passengers and goods must be able to move more easily, more predictably and more efficiently across the continent.” In light of this, he stated that “Namibia therefore supports practical reforms that promote seamless mobility, digital travel systems, improved passenger experience, streamlined cargo clearance and better conditions among immigration, customs, security and aviation authorities.”
According to the Minister Namibia is reviving its national airline to boost connectivity and become a regional aviation hub. He noted that the policy work is done while highlighting that Namibia’s development places significant emphasis on “the advancement of critical aviation infrastructure and service as a catalyst for economic growth, connectivity and regional integration.” The minister confirmed that “At the apex of this agenda, among others, is the development of Terminal G3 at Hosea Kutako International Airport and which is expected to enhance passenger transportation. In addition, substantial investments are being made in the acquisition of modern air navigation and surveillance infrastructure, including primary and secondary radar systems.”
Hon. Haikal further pointed out that Africa’s aviation future depends on the next generation and noted that it is important to “invest in women, youth and aviation next-generation professionals.”
Namibia welcomed the Lomé Declaration and offered support to advance implementation with AU member states, AFCAC, industry stakeholders and other partners.