ONGWEDIVA – Namibia Wildlife Resorts (NWR) expressed disappointment in the relatively low number of local travel uptake, encouraging Namibians to explore their own backyard.
Statistics provided by the NWR for November 2022 to November 2023 show that a total of 511 984 people visited their facilities.
Out of this figure, only 22 622 are Namibian luxury travelers, which equates to a paltry 10% of the total number of visitors.
A sizeable number of about 35 013 of the total clients originated from Germany, followed by South Africa with 90 269 visitors. Botswana has also shown an interest, with 394 having visited the facilities.
NWR spokesperson Nelson Ashipala voiced the resorts’ concern in a media statement recently.
He said they are disappointed that many Namibians have not embraced the opportunity to explore the beauty of their motherland.
“Despite concerted efforts to promote domestic tourism, the majority of visitors to NWR facilities remain Europeans, with a significant number hailing from Germany. NWR will try to come up with more initiatives to encourage local travellers,” he added.
Ashipala said while they welcomed and appreciated the European visitors, they believe that local tourism is the cornerstone of the industry.
“We should remember that NWR has a mandate of ensuring cost-effective travel options. We will push for just that, and for optimism for increased local engagement. NWR is taking proactive measures to encourage domestic tourism,” he continued.
The entity currently has special promotions running to make the resorts more accessible to Namibians.
“These exclusive offers are tailored to entice our fellow citizens to experience the unparalleled beauty and hospitality our resorts have to offer. The SADC special is one of these,” said Ashipala.
“The organisation remains committed to fostering a vibrant local tourism sector that benefits both communities and the nation’s economy,” he added.