Niël Terblanché
The tourism sector has been placed firmly in the international spotlight with the launch of the “Tourism Doing Business Investing in Namibia” guidelines by UN Tourism.
According to UN Tourism Secretary-General Zurab Pololikashvili, the initiative is aimed at encouraging global investors to consider Namibia as a destination not only for travel but also for strategic, long-term investment in tourism development.
He said the newly released guidelines provide a comprehensive overview of the country’s potential, detailing the current state of the economy, the steady rise in tourism arrivals, and favourable conditions for doing business.
According to Pololikashvili, Namibia’s blend of natural attractions, cultural depth, and stable economy positions it as a compelling gateway to Southern Africa.
Pololikashvili, who visited Windhoek for the launch, described Namibia as a country with vision.
“Namibia’s diverse investment opportunities and its dedication to sustainable growth make it an interesting destination for global investments. The country’s efforts in energy transition and tourism expansion reflect its commitment to innovation and inclusivity,” he said.
The launch coincided with Pololikashvili’s attendance at the inauguration of Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah.
The launch of the new guidelines was also part of the broader celebrations marking the 35th anniversary of Namibian independence.
While in Windhoek, Pololikashvili also delivered a speech at the Namibia University of Science and Technology during a session focused on technology’s role in building a more inclusive and resilient tourism sector in Africa.
Pololikashvili’s address incorporated the broader themes of the investment guidelines: Sustainability, digital transformation and the need for partnerships across borders.
In 2023, Namibia welcomed 863 872 international visitors, an increase of 87.4% compared to the previous year.
Tourism accounted for 6.9% of GDP and generated international receipts amounting to US$348 million. Foreign direct investment also surged, with inflows reaching US$2.61 billion in 2023—up from US$1.06 billion in 2022.
The largest portions of visitors came from China, South Africa, the United Kingdom, and Mauritius.
Pololikashvili said Namibia’s appeal is reinforced by its unique geography, from the towering dunes of Sossusvlei to the wildlife-rich plains of Etosha National Park.
“The country’s infrastructure, political stability, and progressive policy environment continue to attract global interest,” he added.
Pololikashvili said the launch of the guidelines is expected to generate further interest from investors and partners seeking to tap into Namibia’s expanding tourism ecosystem.
