The government has proposed an allocation of N$28.8 million for a series of feasibility studies aimed at upgrading and expanding airport infrastructure.
This was part of the budget motivation vote that was tabled by finance minister Ericah Shafudah on Wednesday.
According to Shafudah, the allocation is in an effort to prepare for rising passenger volumes and capitalise on new economic opportunities, particularly in the green hydrogen sector.
“This investment is essential to ensure that we are adequately prepared to meet increasing passenger volumes,” she said.
The feasibility study will be carried out to assess the development needs and enhance quality of service at Hosea Kutako International Airport.
The planned studies will include the potential development of a second passenger terminal at Hosea Kutako International Airport, which remains the country’s primary international gateway.
Additionally, the feasibility work will also be conducted for Rundu and Katima Mulilo airport
The proposal also includes renovation and upgrade studies for airports at Lüderitz and Walvis Bay.
“These studies are not just about infrastructure.
They are about positioning Namibia to fully leverage the opportunities emerging from the growing green hydrogen industry, improve regional air connectivity, and support the growth of our tourism sector,” said Shafudah.
The government has also allocated N$15 million for the recruitment of an aviation expert and a feasibility study on establishing a national airline
“Of the N$2.6 billion allocated to the programme, an amount of N$15 million has been allocated for the recruitment of an aviation expert which is crucial for an economic feasibility study on establishing a national airline,” said Shafudah.
Last month, presidential spokesperson Alfredo Hengari highlighted president Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah’s plans to relaunch Air Namibia.
He said this in response to an editorial published in The Namibian, titled ‘Point of Clarity, Madam President’.
Hengari said a market study is expected to be completed by June, while an expression of interest for a public-private partnership is to be finalised by August 2026.
Hengari said negotiations should be concluded by December 2025, and the launch and official operation of the new airline are anticipated between June and December 2026.
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