Namibia Tourism Board Welcomes New Leadership, Focuses on Post-Pandemic Recovery

Windhoek – Namibia’s Minister of Environment, Forestry, and Tourism, Pohamba Shifeta, has officially announced the appointment of a new board of directors for the Namibia Tourism Board (NTB). The new board, effective from November 1, 2023, to October 31, 2026, includes Janette Fourie as chairperson, Olavi Hamwele as deputy, and members Ally Karaerua, Maggy Mbako, Nguvitjita Zatjirua, Efraim Nkoshi, and Rachel Nathaniel-Koch.

According to Namibia Press Agency (NAMPA), In his remarks during the announcement, Minister Shifeta highlighted the critical timing of this appointment, noting that the tourism sector is currently in full recovery mode following the COVID-19 pandemic. The new board is expected to play a significant role in both regulating the industry and marketing ‘Destination Namibia’.

Shifeta outlined the government’s aspirations for improvements in various areas, including the development of new tourism products and route development across the country. This initiative aims to spread tourism economic activities nationwide, with a particular focus on developing cultural heritage tourism products and packaged experiences. The minister also emphasized the importance of popularizing Namibian cuisine and gastronomy experiences.

Another key area for development, as mentioned by Shifeta, is the marketing and introduction of new products and services in the Transfrontier Conservancy Areas (TFCA), such as the Kavango-Zambezi, Ai-Ais Richtersveld, and Iona TFCA areas. The goal is to enhance the variety and value of tourism experiences in Namibia.

Shifeta stressed the need for meaningful institutional alignment and increased synergy between the NTB, the portfolio ministry, other ministries, Namibian embassies and high commissions abroad, and relevant government agencies to achieve these objectives.

Considering the competitive nature of the tourism sector, Shifeta urged the NTB to elevate the promotion and marketing of Namibia as a top-tier destination for leisure tourism, adventure, and business. He called for a new mindset and innovative thinking in the NTB’s approach to its marketing and regulatory functions.

The new board’s leadership is poised to usher in a new era for Namibia’s tourism sector, focusing on recovery and innovation to make Namibia a leading global tourism destination.