Dhaka: Afroza Khanam, the Minister for Civil Aviation and Tourism, was born in 1962 in Harirampur upazila, Manikganj district, into a respected Muslim family. As the eldest daughter of the notable businessman Harunar Rashid Khan Monno and Huron Nahar Rashid, she has carved a niche for herself in both business and politics.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, Afroza Khanam completed her BBA and MBA degrees in accounting at the University of Dhaka. She later joined the Monno Group of Industries, founded by her father, and served as its Managing Director. Her political journey began with grassroots-level involvement in the BNP, closely following in the footsteps of her father, a four-time elected Member of Parliament and former minister in the BNP-led government.
In 2001, Afroza played a pivotal role as the Chief Coordinator of her father’s successful campaign in the national election, which marked her entry into active politics. Her experiences during this time deepened her understanding of community challenges and fueled her commitment to social welfare and public service.
Elected as the MP from Manikganj-3 with a record turnout in the 13th National Parliamentary Election in 2026, Afroza Khanam assumed the office of Minister for Civil Aviation and Tourism on February 18, 2026. Alongside her ministerial duties, she remains actively engaged in various social and developmental initiatives, particularly through institutions founded by her father, such as the Monno Welfare Foundation and Monno Medical College Hospital.
In recognition of her contributions to business, Afroza Khanam was awarded the Commercially Important Person (CIP) status in 2008 and 2015. On the personal front, she is a mother of three sons and manages to balance her demanding professional and political roles with her family responsibilities.
Afroza Khanam’s life is guided by sincerity, commitment, and compassion. She continues to work with dedication and integrity for the nation’s progress and the well-being of its people, embodying the values of public service and humanitarianism.