Ouma Laouali facts for kids
Ouma Laouali is a brave pilot from Niger. She made history by becoming the very first woman pilot in her country's history.
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Niger's First Female Pilot
In October 2015, when she was 28 years old, Lieutenant Laouali achieved a huge milestone. She officially became the first woman pilot in Niger.
Training for a Special Mission
Ouma Laouali was one of several pilots from the Nigerien air force who received special training in the United States. This training was part of a program to help Niger fight against Boko Haram. Boko Haram is a dangerous terrorist group active in the region.
She learned to fly a Cessna airplane. The United States gave two of these planes to Niger. This happened during a special ceremony in Niamey, the capital city of Niger. The planes and training were part of a large aid package worth about US$24 million.
As of October 2015, the US also had a drone base in Niamey. They were also building another one in Agadez. Agadez is a town in the Nigerien desert. These bases help with efforts to stop terrorism.
What Kind of Plane Does She Fly?
Laouali flies a special plane called the Cessna 208 Caravan. This aircraft is used for intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance (ISR). This means it can gather important information, watch over areas, and explore. It can do many different tasks for the military.
Breaking Barriers in the Sky
Ouma Laouali's achievement is very important. It shows that women can do any job, even those traditionally seen as for men. According to a publication called Ventures Africa, female pilots help to change old ideas. They prove that men are not the only ones suited to be pilots.
Another publication, True Africa, recognized her amazing work. They included Ouma Laouali in their list of "The African women who rocked it in 2015." She truly is an inspiration for many young people.
