Tourism in Nam on upward spiral

THERE has been rapid growth in Namibia’s tourism sector during the past 12 years, says the Ministry of Environment and Tourism’s report for 2004.

It is estimated that tourism contributes about N$2,8 billion a year to the national coffers, providing more than 70 000 jobs: for every 12 tourist arrivals, one new job is created. Compared to the current N$2,8 billion, tourism only contributed N$160 million to the economy in 1993.Meanwhile, the number of tourists to Namibia has increased from 255 000 in 1993 to more than 695 000 in 2003.However, high prices and a stronger local currency may prove an obstacle for further quick growth because of relatively expensive air tickets.Germany, South Africa and the United Kingdom are the biggest markets for Namibian tourism.The American market is growing rapidly, attracting especially trophy hunters.Judging from the age of visitors, the country is an attractive destination for the elderly, but may not be seen as a family destination.The high season for Namibian tourism is during the cooler months: May to October.December is the peak month for Namibia’s coastal resorts thanks to domestic holidaymakers.According to the report, the annual average occupancy rate in accommodation enterprises last year was 52,7 per cent.Natural attractions are the most popular type of tourist activity, particularly at the coastal and in the south, while Windhoek offered city attractions.Of further interest are special-interest trips and tours to natural beauty spots.Other preferred attractions include adventure sports, entertainment facilities, restaurants, and cultural products.Community-based tourism destinations are witnessing an increase in visitors, growing in five years from 30 000 to over 90 000 in 2004.More than N$27 million has already been generated in 31 conservancies.Most of the income has been used for community projects such as waterholes and facilities for children and pensioners.Compared to the current N$2,8 billion, tourism only contributed N$160 million to the economy in 1993.Meanwhile, the number of tourists to Namibia has increased from 255 000 in 1993 to more than 695 000 in 2003.However, high prices and a stronger local currency may prove an obstacle for further quick growth because of relatively expensive air tickets.Germany, South Africa and the United Kingdom are the biggest markets for Namibian tourism.The American market is growing rapidly, attracting especially trophy hunters.Judging from the age of visitors, the country is an attractive destination for the elderly, but may not be seen as a family destination.The high season for Namibian tourism is during the cooler months: May to October.December is the peak month for Namibia’s coastal resorts thanks to domestic holidaymakers.According to the report, the annual average occupancy rate in accommodation enterprises last year was 52,7 per cent.Natural attractions are the most popular type of tourist activity, particularly at the coastal and in the south, while Windhoek offered city attractions.Of further interest are special-interest trips and tours to natural beauty spots.Other preferred attractions include adventure sports, entertainment facilities, restaurants, and cultural products.Community-based tourism destinations are witnessing an increase in visitors, growing in five years from 30 000 to over 90 000 in 2004.More than N$27 million has already been generated in 31 conservancies.Most of the income has been used for community projects such as waterholes and facilities for children and pensioners.