In a groundbreaking achievement, Besa Mumba, 𝐛𝐨𝐫𝐧 in December 1996, has etched her name in history as Zambia’s youngest commercial pilot. At the tender age of 19, she secured a coveted position as a first officer with Proflight Zambia, the nation’s premier airline. Her remarkable journey has already seen her log over 15 hours on domestic routes, co-piloting alongside seasoned captains on the airline’s Caravan aircraft.
Hailing from Lusaka, Besa embarked on her aviation odyssey by enrolling at the South African Flight Training Academy in Heidelberg, Gauteng, immediately after attaining her grade 12 results in 2013. Despite initially envisioning a career as cabin crew, her insatiable curiosity about the mechanics of flight led her to ponder, “why not be the person who flies the aircraft?” This pivotal moment ignited her passion for piloting.
Besa commenced her aviation journey with a Private Pilot License, allowing her to take to the skies within the same month of starting her course. Over the next two years, she delved into the complexities of flight training, culminating in her attainment of a Commercial Pilot’s License by the age of 18. A testament to her dedication, she underwent advanced training at SIMU Flight in Pretoria.
The young aviator’s appointment as a First Officer at Proflight Zambia in her first month not only showcased her exceptional s𝓀𝒾𝓁𝓁s but also shattered records previously held by peers. Her flying escapades have taken her to various destinations, including Kasama, Lower Zambezi, and Luangwa, marking the beginning of a trailblazing career in the skies.
Despite facing personal challenges, including the loss of her father a week before the university entrance exam, Besa’s unwavering determination and support from her family propelled her towards achieving her dreams. Her story serves as an inspiration to young girls and women in Zambia and across the continent, reinforcing the idea that the sky is not the limit.
Besa Mumba’s achievement surpasses the record set by Kalenga Kamwendo, making her Africa’s youngest female commercial pilot. In her pursuit of excellence, she joins the ranks of trailblazing female flyers like Zambia’s first female pilot Yichida Ndhlovu and Major Nina Tapula, the first female pilot in the Zambian Air Force.
Besa Mumba’s narrative is a testament to the power of determination, passion, and the pursuit of one’s dreams. As she continues to soar to new heights, her journey serves as a beacon of inspiration for aspiring aviators and young individuals aiming to break barriers and redefine possibilities in the aviation industry.
