The Namibia Investment Promotion and Development Board (NIPDB) launched the Namibia Convention Bureau (NCB) yesterday. The new bureau, housed under the NIPDB, will help position Namibia as a top destination for Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, and Exhibitions (MICE).
The launch marks a step forward for Namibia as it aims to compete in the regional and global business events market. The NCB will coordinate efforts to attract international and regional conferences, exhibitions, and business meetings to the country. These events are expected to bring more visitors, investment, and income into the economy.
Speaking at the launch, Minister of Environment, Forestry and Tourism, Indileni Ndeshipanda Daniel, stated that Namibia has already hosted major events that brought millions of dollars into the economy, supported jobs, and demonstrated the country’s ability to host large gatherings.
However, she noted that the country lacked a coordinated national system to drive the MICE industry. “Today, with the Convention Bureau, that gap is filled,” she said.
She added that the initiative aligns with President Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah’s vision to create 500 000 jobs. According to the Minister, the MICE industry is among the fastest-growing sectors globally and can generate jobs in hospitality, transportation, logistics, catering, technology, small businesses, and professional services. “Government has already taken steps to support the sector by modernising laws, improving processes and introducing a MICE Visa to make it easier for international delegates to enter Namibia,” she said.
Daniel stressed that success would depend on strong partnerships between the government and the private sector. She invited investors, hotel developers, venue owners, service providers, and entrepreneurs to participate in building a world-class MICE industry. She stated that Namibia needs modern conference centres, more accommodations, improved technology infrastructure, creative services, and skilled event organisers.
Background
The Namibia Convention Bureau was created to market Namibia as a business events destination and to coordinate all MICE-related activities under one national body. Before its establishment, efforts to attract conferences and exhibitions were scattered. The NCB now serves as a central point for promoting Namibia, supporting event bids, and ensuring compliance with international standards.
The bureau is important to Namibia’s economic diversification efforts. Business events bring high-spending visitors, extend tourism beyond peak seasons, and create long-term business and investment opportunities. By strengthening the MICE sector, the NCB is expected to drive job creation, support small and medium-sized enterprises, and boost national revenue.