Ethiopian Airlines Turns 10 in Namibia, Honoring Historical Ties & Tourism Growth
The airline reflects on its historic role in Dr. Sam Nujoma’s homecoming and its pivotal support during the pandemic as it solidifies its decade-long partnership with Namibia.
Windhoek, Namibia — Ethiopian Airlines has marked a significant milestone in its international presence, celebrating ten years of operations in Namibia. The anniversary highlights a decade of strengthened ties in tourism, business, and global connectivity, underpinned by a relationship that dates back to Namibia’s liberation struggle.
The airline began its direct service to Windhoek on October 6, 2016, linking Namibia to its hub in Addis Ababa and opening doors to destinations across Africa and beyond.
During celebrations marking the occasion, Namibia’s Minister of Environment, Forestry and Tourism, Indileni Daniel, congratulated the carrier and called for expanded flight frequencies to further boost the nation’s tourism sector, business travel, and investment climate.
A Historic Bond
Beyond its current commercial success, Minister Daniel emphasized the airline’s deep historical roots in Namibia. She recalled the pivotal moment on September 14, 1989, when Founding President Dr. Sam Nujoma returned from exile aboard an Ethiopian Airlines flight.
“Dr. Sam Nujoma returned home from exile on an Ethiopian airline. It was a historic homecoming. For many Namibians, that specific flight gives Ethiopian airline a lasting place in our nation’s history,” Daniel said.
She also acknowledged Ethiopia’s contribution to Namibia’s human capital development, noting that the country played a crucial role in training Namibian pilots during the liberation struggle.
Commitment During Crisis
Getnet Yohannes, Ethiopian Airlines Area Manager for Namibia, reaffirmed the carrier’s dedication to the nation, pointing to its resilience during global crises. He highlighted the airline’s role during the COVID-19 pandemic, when it remained operational to serve as a critical lifeline for the country.
“Over the last 10 years, Ethiopian Airlines service in Namibia has been about much more than simply carrying passengers from one destination to another. We have demonstrated our commitment to the people and the nation, particularly during the COVID-19 pandemic, when we remained operational to evacuate stranded passengers, deliver essential personal protective equipment, and serve as a vital lifeline, connecting families and friends and linking Namibia to the rest of the world,” Yohannes said.
Yohannes thanked the airline’s local staff, the Namibian government, and the public for their continued support over the past decade.
Industry Recognition
The anniversary event also served to recognize top-performing travel agencies and cargo partners who have contributed to the airline’s success in the region. In the passenger category, Trip Travel was awarded gold, Rennies Travel took silver, and Blue Berry Travel received bronze. In the cargo sector, Universal Air Cargo Solutions was honored with the gold award.
As Ethiopian Airlines looks to the future, the partnership with Namibia remains a cornerstone of its growth strategy in Southern Africa, bridging history with modern connectivity.
