STAFF WRITER
Namibia is pushing to meet the latest aviation safety and security guidelines as it seeks to strengthen the aviation sector’s role in tourism, trade, investment and regional integration.
Namibia Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) director Toska Sem said aviation is key to connecting Namibia to international markets.
Speaking at the official opening of the International Civil Aviation Organisation (ICAO) workshop on Monday, Sem said Namibia continues to position itself as a preferred tourism destination and an emerging logistics hub for Southern Africa.
She said maintaining a safe, secure and efficient aviation system is fundamental to achieving Namibia’s national development objectives.
“Namibia remains fully committed to strengthening aviation safety in accordance with the ICAO Global Aviation Safety Plan (GASP), cascading it down to the AFI Regional Aviation Safety Plan (RASP),” she said.
Sem said Namibia is strengthening its State Safety Programme and implementing ICAO Standards and Recommended Practices (SARPs).
She said safety is the foundation of a sustainable, competitive and globally connected aviation sector.
Sem said the National Aviation Safety Plan provides a strategic framework for identifying and managing aviation safety risks.
The plan uses a coordinated, data-driven and performance-based approach.
“By strengthening regulatory oversight and promoting a proactive safety culture, the National Aviation Safety Plan contributes directly to safer, more efficient and more resilient aviation systems,” she said.
Sem said the benefits of an effective National Aviation Safety Plan extend beyond aviation safety.
“A safe and resilient aviation system builds confidence among airlines, passengers, investors and international partners, driving the growth of air transport, tourism, trade, investment and regional connectivity,” she said.
She said aviation safety is also critical to the expansion of the Single African Air Transport Market (SAATM), a flagship African Union Agenda 2063 initiative aimed at improving air connectivity across the continent.
“National Aviation Safety Plans support the development of modern airport infrastructure and promote environmentally sustainable aviation through improved operational efficiency, enhanced air navigation, and reduced fuel consumption and emissions,” she said.
Sem said investing in aviation safety is not only a regulatory obligation.
“It is also a strategic investment in Africa’s economic growth, sustainable development and the long-term success of its aviation sector.”
She said aviation safety is a shared responsibility.
“It requires effective leadership, sound regulatory oversight, operational excellence and strong collaboration among governments, regulators, industry and international partners.”
Sem called for renewed commitment to building aviation systems that can support the continued expansion of air transport under SAATM, sustainable tourism, resilient airport infrastructure, environmental stewardship and Africa’s broader economic transformation.
“Together, we can ensure that increased connectivity across our continent is matched by world-class”
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