The Namibia Airports Company (NAC) has made substantial headway in stabilizing its operations, with the company now functioning at roughly 79 per cent of its pre-COVID-19 level.

NAC board chairperson, Leake Hangala, revealed this on Thursday during an annual general meeting in the capital.

Hangula noted that NAC is committed to improving its airport infrastructure in order to support government's national development goals and harness the natural resources resulting from the recent oil and gas finds, as well as the green hydrogen initiatives.

'Thanks to the shareholder for the support, confidence and trust shown to the board and management. We have achieved the development of our integrated strategic business plan, submitted to and approval by the shareholder of the company's budget and business plan for 2022/2023; infrastructural and service improvements at the airports, spearheading aviation connectivity initiatives, as well as introduction of stringent cost-cutting measures that led to the current and improved financial performance and standing of the company,'' he said.

Titus Ndove, Executive Director in the Ministry of Finance and Public Enterprises, stated at the same event that the ministry recognizes and applauds the NAC for its increased performance in financial operations, leadership, governance and compliance.

He noted that it is commendable to see a state-owned firm strive for expansion while remaining legally compliant.

'As the shareholder, we are in support of the presented strategic initiatives and will continue to support NAC to mobilise the necessary resources for the successful implementation of infrastructural improvements at its various airports,'' he said.

The envisaged airport infrastructure developments, which include among others; the Hosea Kutako International Airport congestion alleviation project to extend the VIP/VVIP facilities to bring it to adequate standard in terms of facilitation and the size of the presidential lounge, as well as parking configuration at a cost of N.dollars 18 million.

He added that the apron expansion at Hosea Kutako International Airport at a cost of N.dollars 100 million, funded by government over a two-year period, while discussions are ongoing for the construction of terminal three at Hosea Kutako International Airport and the optimal financing structure for the project and the construction of new terminal buildings at Katima Mulilo, Rundu and Lderitz airports.

Source: The Namibian Press Agency