Namibia Unveils Key Freeway Sections, Boosting Airport Access and Regional Trade
The Namibian Roads Authority (RA) has announced a major milestone in the country’s transport infrastructure: the opening of newly completed sections of the Dr Hage G. Geingob Freeway, formerly known as the Windhoek – Hosea Kutako International Airport Road. This development marks a significant leap forward for Namibia’s connectivity, with direct implications for the movement of people and goods across southern Africa.
Stretching over 45 kilometres as a dual carriageway, the freeway links the heart of Windhoek’s Central Business District (CBD) with Hosea Kutako International Airport (WDH). As one of Namibia’s largest infrastructure undertakings, the project carries an estimated price tag of N\$3 billion, underscoring the nation’s commitment to modernizing its transport corridors and supporting economic growth.
Newly Opened Sections Enhance Mobility
Among the most notable updates, the RA has opened Section 2B, which runs from the Dordabis Interchange directly to Hosea Kutako International Airport. This stretch is now fully operational, providing a seamless route for both domestic and international travellers. The improved access is expected to streamline airport transfers, reduce congestion, and enhance the overall travel experience for visitors arriving in Namibia.
Additionally, a 10-kilometre segment of Section 2A—spanning from the Sam Nujoma Interchange to the Otjihase Interchange at Finkenstein—has been made available to motorists. The RA has indicated that the remaining portion of this section is on track for completion by the end of September 2025, promising further improvements in the near future.
Another critical upgrade is the new airport roundabout, which became operational at the end of July 2025. This roundabout connects Hosea Kutako International Airport directly to the freeway, ensuring smoother traffic flow for both passengers and logistics providers. The improved junction is expected to minimize delays and facilitate more efficient movement of goods and travellers to and from the airport.
Honouring a Visionary Leader
The renaming of the freeway in August 2024 to the Dr Hage G. Geingob Freeway pays tribute to the late President Hage Geingob, whose leadership was instrumental in championing infrastructure as a catalyst for national development. The ceremony, held on what would have been his 83rd birthday, served as a poignant reminder of his enduring legacy and the pivotal role of transport in driving economic progress.
Phased Construction and Strategic Partnerships
The construction of the freeway has unfolded in multiple phases, reflecting a blend of local initiative and international cooperation. Phases 1 and 2 were launched between 2016 and 2020, financed by the Namibian government. The subsequent Phase 3 began in 2022, supported by a grant from the Chinese government and a loan from the African Development Bank. This collaborative approach has enabled Namibia to leverage both domestic resources and external expertise, ensuring the project’s timely advancement and adherence to international standards.
Transformative Benefits for Namibia and Beyond
Once the entire freeway is completed, the impact will be felt across multiple sectors. The most immediate benefit will be a dramatic reduction in travel time between Windhoek and Hosea Kutako International Airport—from approximately 45 minutes down to just 25 minutes. This improvement is set to make Namibia more attractive to international visitors, who will enjoy faster and safer access to the country’s main gateway.
Beyond tourism, the freeway is poised to play a strategic role in regional integration. By linking Windhoek to the Trans-Kalahari Corridor, the route will facilitate enhanced trade with neighbouring South Africa and Botswana. This corridor is a vital artery for the movement of goods across southern Africa, and the upgraded freeway will strengthen Namibia’s position as a logistics hub in the region.
Economic Impact and Fiscal Discipline
The N\$3 billion investment in the Dr Hage G. Geingob Freeway is a testament to Namibia’s vision for a modern, efficient transport network. The RA has reported that the project remains within its planned budget, with no cost overruns to date. This fiscal discipline is noteworthy, especially for large-scale infrastructure projects, and reflects effective project management and oversight.
As the freeway becomes fully operational, the benefits will extend beyond travellers and logistics companies. The improved infrastructure is expected to stimulate economic activity, attract new investment, and create opportunities for local businesses. By enhancing connectivity, Namibia is positioning itself to capture a greater share of regional trade and tourism flows, with positive ripple effects for employment and economic diversification.
Implications for Africa’s Travel Sector
The completion of key sections of the Dr Hage G. Geingob Freeway offers valuable lessons and inspiration for other African countries seeking to upgrade their transport infrastructure. The project demonstrates the importance of strategic planning, phased implementation, and the effective use of partnerships to achieve ambitious development goals. For industry professionals across sub-Saharan Africa, Namibia’s experience highlights the transformative potential of modern roads in unlocking new business opportunities and enhancing the continent’s global competitiveness.
Looking ahead, the continued expansion and modernization of transport networks will be crucial for Africa’s travel and tourism sector. As more countries invest in infrastructure, the region will become increasingly accessible, attractive, and interconnected. The Dr Hage G. Geingob Freeway stands as a powerful symbol of what can be achieved through vision, collaboration, and sustained commitment to progress.
