Namibia on Saturday honoured its late President, Hage Geingob, by christening the Hosea Kutako International Airport Road as the Dr. Hage G. Geingob Freeway. This significant event was attended by Namibian President Nangolo Mbumba, former President Hifikepunye Pohamba, and an array of Namibian government officials, alongside Chinese Ambassador to Namibia Zhao Weiping, representatives from Chinese enterprises, and over 300 local citizens.
In his address, President Mbumba underscored the Namibian government’s unwavering commitment to infrastructural advancement since gaining independence. “The government has placed a high premium on the expansion, improvement, and continued development of Namibia’s infrastructure with the understanding that world-class road networks, railways, airports, and ports are enablers of economic growth, job creation, and regional integration,” Mbumba articulated.
Reflecting on the wisdom of Confucius, Mbumba noted, “The Chinese philosopher Confucius once said, ‘Roads were made for journeys, not destinations.’ Indeed, Geingob’s life can be described as a journey — a journey of purpose. He has left behind near footprints and those that are far.” The newly named freeway stands as a testament to Geingob’s enduring legacy, and the ceremony underscored Namibia’s steadfast commitment to infrastructural development.
In an interview with SAT, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Works and Transport John Mutorwa highlighted the freeway as a landmark of unity and cooperation between Namibia and China. “I would like to express my heartfelt thanks to the Chinese government and people for their support and help,” said Mutorwa. “I hope that China and Namibia can continue to strengthen cooperation in the economic and political fields.”
The first phase of the Capital Airport Road project was undertaken by China Railway Seventh Group. At the event, General Manager Ma Linlin emphasised the meticulous quality control during the construction process, acknowledging the challenges overcome. “We are honoured to be able to leave a project named after a former president in the local area,” Ma Linlin stated.
The 45-kilometre Dr. Hage G. Geingob Freeway, currently under construction, is divided into three phases, each managed by different Chinese construction companies. The initial and second phases commenced in 2016 and 2020, respectively, with funding from the Namibian government, while the third phase, launched in 2022, is supported by aid from the Chinese government. The project is slated for completion by the end of 2024, which will significantly reduce travel time from the international airport to Windhoek’s city centre from 45 minutes to 25 minutes.
