ABENAB – Otjozondjupa governor John //Khamuseb has called on the youth to embrace agriculture and tourism as key drivers of economic growth and job creation in the region.
He made the call during a weeklong tour to the northern parts of the country, organised by the Namibian Tourism Board (NTB) to promote cultural tourism and showcase hidden gems that could attract more visitors to Namibia.
The campaign further aims to unlock new revenue streams for local communities.
//Khamuseb said tourism in Otjozondjupa is closely linked to agriculture, and that both sectors can help keep money circulating within Namibia.
“A nation that cannot feed itself cannot be respected by other nations from which it imports food. That is why I encourage our youth to look into horticulture and agriculture. Protect the soil, produce and sell locally. This way, we rotate our capital within our own country instead of exporting it elsewhere,” he remarked.
The governor described Otjozondjupa as a jewel of tourism.
//Khamuseb pointed out that the region is home to unique wildlife, historical battle sites and natural attractions that can generate additional revenue streams if marketed properly as tourism attractions.
“From the Gross Barmen Dam near Okahandja to the Waterberg Plateau Park, our region has sanctuaries of birds, fauna and flora as well as a wide range of lodges and game farms. This is truly a haven for those who want peace, tranquility and natural beauty,” he remarked.
He pointed out the significance of Otavi and Otjikoto Lake, where German troops reportedly dumped weapons during the colonial war, as well as the Battle of Hamakari near Waterberg, which formed part of the Herero genocide.
“Otavi holds great historical value. At the end of German rule, South African forces took over. It is said the Germans threw their cannons and weapons into Otjikoto Lake in retaliation. This history could be developed into a heritage site where artefacts are displayed, turning it into one of Namibia’s most attractive historic tourism destinations,” //Khamuseb said.
He added that the Battle of Hamakari, fought about 30 kilometres outside Otjiwarongo, is another important site that could be developed to draw more visitors.
“A large lodge could be developed at the foot of the Waterberg to attract more tourists, preserve our history and, at the same time, create jobs for our young people,” he said.
//Khamuseb added that the region is already investing in infrastructure to support the tourism sector.
“We currently have a hotel school under construction. By January next year, its doors will open to train more young people in the tourism industry,” he said.
The Namibian Tourism Board (NTB) has identified cultural and historical tourism as one of the areas that could boost visitor arrivals to Namibia while ensuring that more communities benefit directly from the sector.
NTB CEO Sebulon Chicalu said such initiatives aim to shift the narrative of tourism beyond landscapes and wildlife to include the daily lives of Namibians.
“Tourism in Namibia should not only be about the dunes, wildlife and scenery. Storytelling, food, culture and heritage must be part of what visitors experience when they come here. That way, tourism benefits will reach the people,” he said.