WINDHOEK – First National Bank of Namibia (FNB), Standard Bank and Windhoek Lager jointly contributed a whopping N$4.5 million to the hosting of the historic Adventure World Summit (AWS) 2013 scheduled to kick off this month in Swakopmund.
The summit, the first to be hosted in Africa, is expected to bring together close to 650 adventure travel decision-makers from over 60 countries and 62 international journalists, including from the world acclaimed National Geographic magazine.
Thanking the sponsors the Minister of Environment and Tourism, Uahekua Herunga, said: “It is because of you, and the partnerships you helped to create, that we can bring this gathering of more than 650 adventure travel decision-makers and media to Namibia for the first summit on the African continent. You have responded in a manner true to the nature and character of the land of the brave.”
Herunga said with tourism as the second largest contributor to Namibia’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP) and a strategic partner to a vast array of businesses and communities throughout the country, the summit represents a chance for Namibians to unite and create a strong and lasting impression. He added: “It is the best six days of marketing that our tourism industry will have in this decade.” He said business would be generated, international media inspired and Namibia will also be firmly placed on the adventure map.
“This event will be the foundation upon which our industry will grow and contribute to the nation long after the summit ends. Our nation will deliver a summit never to be forgotten. Just as the tourism industry doesn’t stand alone, it has been our desire that this summit must not stand alone and must exemplify true lasting and strong partnerships,” the minister alluded.
However, Herunga said tourism depends on and supports various other sectors and to that end, Team Destination Namibia approached various companies to become partners in the adventure.
“First National Bank and Standard Bank put aside professional competitiveness to join forces in supporting the goals of the summit. Windhoek Lager has a strong presence internationally but never forgets its Namibian roots, and all of you who have contributed in one way or another, we applaud your support to the tourism industry, to the summit and to your country. Collectively, you have supported us with N$4.5 million, nearly half our operational budget,” Herunga revealed.
By Albertina Nakale