Namibia Denies Leaked Memo Concerning Ethiopian Airlines Deal

Namibia's Ministry of Works & Transport officially dismissed a leaked memorandum on September 2, 2026, which suggested that Ethiopian Airlines Group would gain executive control over Namibia's proposed national carrier. The ministry labeled the document as 'unauthorised,' clarifying that ongoing discussions with the airline remain exploratory with no binding commitments. The leaked memo reportedly detailed proposals for Ethiopian Airlines to appoint key executives, including the CEO and CFO, for the proposed Namibian carrier, based on meetings held in Addis Ababa on August 21 and 22 between Namibian officials and Ethiopian Airlines CEO Mesfin Tasew. The government maintains that no final agreement has been reached regarding the management or operational structure of any future airline.