Tourism

Hangala backs Air Namibia revival as government invests N$20 million in feasibility study

The government has allocated N$20 million for a feasibility study to assess the revival of Air Namibia, with the goal of relaunching the national airline by 2026. Dr. Leake Hangala who is the Chairperson of the Namibia Airports Company, has voiced strong support for the initiative, stressing the airline’s role in national development and economic growth. Speaking on the proposal, Dr. Hangala expanded on the importance of having a functional […]

3 April, 2025 64

Namibia

e-Visa System Launched to Ease Travel

A streamlined e-Visa system has been introduced by the Home Affairs, Immigration, Safety, and Security Ministry to simplify visa applications. The online service lets travelers apply in advance, reducing congestion at entry points. Delphin Ilunga, who serves on the Tour and Safari Association Board and as vice-chairperson of the Federation of the Tourism Association, praised the move.

4 March, 2025 30

Business / Economics

30 January-6 February 2025 Weekly Economics Wrap: Tourism, Telecommunications, and Global Economic Trends

The local hospitality industry in Namibia is undergoing a significant shift as several major hotels transition from fixed rates to dynamic pricing. This move, influenced by international trends and increasing operational costs, has raised concerns about the impact on domestic tourism, already facing economic challenges. A recent survey by The Brief revealed that fluctuating rates could affect local tourism, making it difficult for many Namibians to access affordable accommodations. This […]

6 February, 2025 23

Business / Economics

Namibia and Botswana Officially Slash Roaming Charges

In September last year, the Information and Communication Technology ministry officially announced reduced roaming charges between Namibia and Botswana, effective August last year. In her speech last week, the minister Emma Theofelus reiterated recently that the new tariffs aim to enhance cross-border communication and strengthen bilateral ties. Directed by CRAN and Botswana’s BOCRA, mobile operators like Telecom Namibia, MTC, BTC, Mascom, and Orange Botswana implemented the reductions. Theofelus highlighted […]

27 January, 2025 33

Business / Economics

Mining threatens tourism

Namibia's growing mining activities are raising concerns over the encroachment on national parks. With these parks serving as tourist attractions, the debate over prioritising mining or tourism income has become an urgent sustainability topic. Beyond revenue considerations, the conservation of the country's rich natural resources is at stake. Many of the mined resources are destined for export, while tourism provides direct financial benefits and supports local communities. This has led […]

20 January, 2025 59

Africa

Ghana now permits visa-free entry to citizens of all African countries

Ghana now permits visa-free entry to citizens of all African countries, following president Nana Akufo-Addo's approval last month. This landmark decision, pledged during the Africa Prosperity Dialogues, aims to strengthen continental ties and boost tourism, trade and travel. Previously, Ghana offered visa-free access to 26 African nations and visas on arrival to 25. Ghana joins Rwanda, Seychelles, Gambia and Benin as the fifth African nation with a continent-wide visa-free […]

6 January, 2025 15

Business / Economics

October occupancy rate drops to 65.15%

The national occupancy rate for October stood at national occupancy rate for October stood at 65.15%, slightly lower than the 65.54% recorded in October 2023 and below the pre-pandemic level of 69.87% from October 2019. The year-to-date occupancy rate for 2024 averaged 54.17%, falling just short of the 54.76% seen in 2019. Gitta Paetzold the Hospitality Association of Namibia's CEO.

2 December, 2024 28

Business / Economics

Gondwana Collection Namibia Opens State-of-the-Art Facility at Hosea Kutako Airport

Gondwana Collection Namibia has unveiled its new Namibia2Go facility at Hosea Kutako International Airport, aiming to enhance travel experiences in the country. The state-of-the-art car rental hub combines innovative design with Namibia’s cultural and natural influences. The facility offers 24-hour personalized support and seamless integration with tour operators, ensuring a smooth experience for travelers. Namibia2Go represents the start of a larger journey to inspire and empower visitors, according to […]

22 November, 2024 37

Environment

Etosha National Park roads to get urgent repairs

The Ministry of Environment, Forestry, and Tourism has announced both immediate and long-term actions to improve road conditions in the Etosha National Park, following complaints from tourists and tour operators. Heavy traffic has caused serious gravel erosion, potholes, and drainage issues, especially on the route from Okaukuejo to Namutoni. Ministry spokesperson, Romeo Muyunda.

30 October, 2024 60