Namibia Honors Former President Hage Geingob by Naming Airport Road in His Honor

On a landmark day for Namibia, the nation paid homage to its former President Hage Geingob by dedicating the primary artery linking the capital to its main airport in his name. The thoroughfare leading to Hosea Kutako International Airport has now been christened as the Dr. Hage G. Geingob Freeway. This gesture of respect unfolded in a ceremonial atmosphere on Saturday with the presence of the incumbent President of Namibia, Nangolo Mbumba, past leader Hifikepunye Pohamba, government officials, the Chinese Ambassador to Namibia Zhao Weiping, and a vibrant crowd of more than 300 local residents.

As articulated by President Mbumba, Namibia has, since gaining independence, vested heavily in amplifying and refining its infrastructure. This commitment reflects a strategic approach to foster economic prosperity, amplify job creation, and advance regional cohesion. The country recognizes that robust infrastructure such as roads, railways, airports, and ports catalyzes these developmental aspirations.

During the event, President Mbumba alluded to Confucius, accentuating the philosophy that journeys hold more significance than the final destination. In correlating this wisdom to Geingob's legacy, Mbumba mirrored the late President's life to a purposeful journey with impactful strides both near and distant.

The freeway stands as more than mere asphalt and signage; it embodies the indelible imprint that Geingob has left on the nation. Furthermore, this ceremony was not just a simple act of remembrance but a statement underlining Namibia's steadfast ambition in bolstering its infrastructure.

The contribution of China to this venture was underscored by Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Works and Transport, John Mutorwa. The comprehensive cooperation between Namibia and China, illustrated by this major infrastructure project, was manifested in gratitude during Mutorwa's exchange with the media. He envisaged an enduring and strengthening bond between the two nations both on economic and political fronts.

Encapsulating the spirit of international collaboration, the China Railway Seventh Group, under the stewardship of General Manager Ma Linlin, showcased their relentless pursuit of quality and challenge conquering in constructing the inaugural phase of this monumental project. This enterprise reflects not only the technological prowess but also the social responsibility ethos of the Chinese firms involved.

Currently, the 45-kilometer Dr. Hage G. Geingob Freeway is undergoing phased development, each assigned to diverse Chinese contractors. Inaugurated in phases starting in 2016, and with the latest one in 2022 aided by China, the project holds promise for completion by the end of 2024. This completion will significantly curtail the travel time from Hosea Kutako International Airport to Windhoek's heart, transforming it from a 45-minute journey to a swift 25-minute commute.