Aviation Week Africa Opens in Namibia with Focus on Connectivity and Growth
The third edition of Aviation Week Africa (AWA) 2026 has officially opened in Windhoek, bringing together high-level government officials, aviation leaders and industry stakeholders to advance air connectivity and economic integration across the continent.
Held under the theme “Linking Africa: Partners for Growth,” the conference aims to accelerate collaboration and drive progress in Africa’s aviation sector.
Officiating on behalf of the Head of State, Namibia’s Minister of Environment, Forestry and Tourism, Hon. Indileni Daniel, highlighted aviation as a critical driver of development.
“Aviation is not simply a transport sector; it is a strategic infrastructure that underpins commerce, facilitates investment, enables tourism and connects African economies,” she said, noting that Africa remains one of the least connected regions globally.
Zambia Airports Corporation Limited Managing Director, Mr Desai Urvesh, emphasised the importance of aligning infrastructure development with policy reforms to unlock meaningful connectivity.
“Africa’s aviation future will not be defined by infrastructure alone, but by how we connect markets and align policies. Meaningful connectivity demands coordinated regulation, integrated airspace and full implementation of continental initiatives,” he said.
Air Vice Marshal Teofilus Shaende, Commander of the Namibia Air Force, underscored the role of civil-military cooperation in ensuring safe and efficient airspace.
“Airspace is no longer just a transit environment; it is a strategic enabler for development and cooperation. Strengthening collaboration between military and civil aviation is essential,” he said.
In her closing remarks, Executive Director of the Namibia Civil Aviation Authority, Mrs Toska Sem, called for tangible outcomes from the conference.
“This platform is not merely for engagement, but a defining moment to translate dialogue into measurable outcomes. The future of Africa’s aviation industry lies in our ability to deepen partnerships and align policy with implementation,” she said.
The Civil Aviation Authority of Zambia is among the key participants, with a delegation led by Board Chairperson Captain Gabriel Kunda, reaffirming Zambia’s role in promoting intra-African aviation cooperation.
The conference is expected to address critical priorities, including improving air access, strengthening regulatory frameworks, enhancing infrastructure, promoting civil-military collaboration and advancing the implementation of the Single African Air Transport Market.
Previous editions of Aviation Week Africa were hosted in Zambia in 2024 and 2025, positioning the event as a key platform for shaping the future of aviation on the continent.
