Namibia will host a three-day inaugural Aviation Week Africa next year. The initiative, launched in collaboration with Zambia, which is the birthplace of the concept, aims to promote sustainable growth and celebrate Africa's aviation sector.

At the media launch, the Ministry of Environment, Forestry and Tourism's Executive Director, Sikongo Haihambo, presented the Ministry's role in supporting the event.

"The Ministry of Environment, Forestry, and Tourism reaffirms its commitment to support initiatives that strengthen Namibia's tourism grant equity, enhance air access, and promote sustainable development. We stand ready to collaborate with all partners who share our belief that Namibia's skies, landscapes, and people are amongst our greatest national assets."

The Chief Executive Officer of Namibia Airports Company, Bisey |Uirab, emphasised the enhancement of air connectivity across Africa.

"As we all know, aviation plays a key role in the economic and social development of our country and indeed of our continent. It connects people, it connects markets, it stimulates trade and tourism, and it enables investment and innovation. For us, Namibia, enhanced air connectivity will continue to support our national development priorities."

The Executive Director of the Namibia Civil Aviation Authority, Toska Sem, addressed key priorities for the event, including fostering aviation safety and promoting the participation of women in aviation, with an emphasis on inclusive growth in the sector.

"Our nation has gained recognition for upholding the highest safety standards, cultivating a pool of skilled professionals and strictly adhering to international regulatory frameworks. We take pride in our achievements, including being nominated as the best of the aviation authority."

The CEO of Africa Aviation Week, Hellen Mwamba, spoke on the impact the event will bring.

"It will drive tangible economic and connectivity benefits across the continent. So, as we prepare to welcome you to Namibia, or welcome us to Namibia rather, in 2026, we celebrate both Zambia, which is the birthplace of this initiative, and Namibia, our host nation, that will elevate us to new heights. Together, we are linking Africa with the theme Partners for Growth, creating a connected, competitive, and visionary African aviation industry." 

Aviation Week Africa is expected to bring together leading industry players from across the continent.