The tourism sector is set for further growth as inflows look promising ahead of Namibia’s peak tourism season, which starts next month.
The number of foreign arrivals averaged 11 431 per month during the first two months of 2023, compared to a monthly average of 5 223 in the first two months of 2022, says economic analysts Simonis Storm Securities.
According to statistics, foreign arrivals increased by 107% year on year in February 2023, and in the last 12 months accounted for about 82% of pre-pandemic levels, implying that recovery has been mostly achieved, whereas regional arrivals reached about 79% of pre-pandemic levels.
“The occupancy rate in March 2023 across nationwide hospitality establishments stood at 40,7%, compared to 31,7% recorded in the prior month, and 39,4% in March 2022,” says Simonis.
The occupancy rate averaged 36,5% in the first quarter of 2023, compared to an average of 46,1% in the previous quarter.
Nonetheless, this is the best first-quarter occupancy rate since the onset of the pandemic, meaning the local tourism sector is off to a good start in the new year, Simonis says.
“With Namibia’s peak tourism season starting next month, we expect improved growth in occupancy rates in the second and third quarters of 2023, which are peak seasons, to follow the pre-pandemic trend,” the analysts say.
According to Simonis, the central area of Namibia recorded the highest occupancy rate in March 2023 at 52,7%, followed by the southern area (41,1%) and the coastal area (39,7%).
Leisure tourism continues to be the primary driver of tourism, accounting for 91,9% of visitors in March 2023, while business travellers accounted for 6,3%, and conference attendees accounted for 1,8%.
The majority of visitors during March 2023 came from Germany, Austria, and Switzerland at 39%, followed by locals (27%) and South Africans (9%).
– email: matthew@namibian.com.na
In an age of information overload, Sunrise is The Namibian’s morning briefing, delivered at 6h00 from Monday to Friday. It offers a curated rundown of the most important stories from the past 24 hours – occasionally with a light, witty touch. It’s an essential way to stay informed. Subscribe and join our newsletter community.
The Namibian uses AI tools to assist with improved quality, accuracy and efficiency, while maintaining editorial oversight and journalistic integrity.
Stay informed with The Namibian – your source for credible journalism. Get in-depth reporting and opinions for
only N$85 a month. Invest in journalism, invest in democracy –
Subscribe Now!
