Erasmus Shalihaxwe
The managing director of the Namibia Wild Resort (NWR) has denied allegations that the institution is selling or handing over 14 of its lodges to European companies.
This follows a string of letters shared on social media by the Affirmative Repositioning’s (AR) leader, Job Amupanda, since Monday.
“Three weeks ago, as of 31 January 2025, the corrupt regime started a process, based on lies, that will lead to selling and/or handing over the following fourteen (14) resorts/lodges belonging to the government via NWR. The resorts/lodges are Gross Barmen, Popa Falls, Sossus Dune Lodge, Ai-Ais, NWRHi, Hardap, Hobas, Khorixas, Naukluft, Onkoshi, Terrace Bay, Mile 108, Boplaas and Waterberg,” he said.
Amupanda claimed that deals are already in place with connected “comrades.”.
According to him, discussions with Europeans are underway.
“This deal, which apparently didn’t involve management, is concluded, and the so-called consultant is already part of the corrupt scheme. Discussions are already taking place in Europe! Our land and resources are under discussion in Europe. Totally sickening!” stressed Amupanda.
Amupanda called on the public to oppose these plans.
On Tuesday he released documents on social media, including a letter of invitation dated 09 December 2024, to bidders for the provision of comprehensive audit and strategic enhancement services for non-performing NWR resorts.
The bidders, according to the document, should make recommendations to NWR on several issues.
“…a detailed assessment of the loss-making resorts, determine the root causes of the loss-making, conduct a thorough market assessment impact analysis of the loss-making resorts, and make recommendations to NWR on strategic realignment and market viability, enhanced competitive positioning, which may include exploration of outsourcing and joint ventures or any other options in line with NWR’s mandate,” reads the letter of invitation.
In a staff memo to the staff by the company’s managing director, Mathias Ngwangwana reassured the staff that there are no plans to sell the lodges.
“Recent social media claims have seemingly caused concern among staff regarding the future of NWR and job security. I want to take this opportunity to assure all staff members that there are no plans to sell or hand over any NWR resorts or lodges. The claims are not based on facts and should not cause any distress among our valued employees,” said Ngwangwana.
He added that as per the bid document that was shared publicly with potential bidders, the purpose of the exercise is to conduct an in-depth review of underperforming properties to determine ways to improve their efficiency, profitability, and overall sustainability.
“This process aligns with good corporate governance practices and aims to ensure that NWR remains financially sustainable while continuing to provide quality services to Namibians and international visitors alike,” explained Ngwangwana.
