Niël Terblaché
Namibia has reaffirmed its dedication to sustainable and inclusive tourism development during the 123rd Session of the Executive Council of UN Tourism, held in Segovia, Spain, from 29 to 30 May 2025.
The two-day council meeting brought together ministers and senior tourism officials from across the globe to deliberate on strategies to promote innovation, resilience and inclusive recovery in the sector.
Delivering Namibia’s statement at the session, the Minister of Environment, Forestry and Tourism, Indileni Daniel, said the country is steadfast in its advocacy for sustainable tourism across Africa.
She also expressed appreciation to the Kingdom of Spain for hosting the event and thanked UN Tourism for its ongoing support to the African tourism sector.
She also acknowledged the presence of the UN Tourism Secretary-General at the recent inauguration of President Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah.
“As a former Minister of Environment, Forestry and Tourism, the president is an advocate for sustainable tourism across Africa,” she said.
Daniel added that Nandi-Ndaitwah is committed to reinforcing Namibia’s stance on inclusive growth and responsible environmental stewardship.
Namibia, where more than 40 percent of the national territory is under conservation management, continues to pursue a tourism model that balances biodiversity protection with social and economic development.
According to Daniel, local communities play a key role in wildlife stewardship and responsible tourism.
She added that the sector had shown strong resilience, with the introduction of e-visas restoring international confidence and encouraging a rise in visitor numbers.
Namibia also used the platform to endorse several continental initiatives, including the African Gastronomy Forum and the soon-to-be-launched Culinary School in Zimbabwe.
The Minister said Namibia’s own Hospitality School and Tourism Board are ready to contribute to these efforts, further elevating African culinary excellence.
She announced that Namibia had launched the Investing in Namibia 2025 framework aimed at attracting tourism-related investment.
Namibia has also endorsed the Pan-African Tourism Innovation Hub, which supports entrepreneurship and youth development.
Daniel added that with over 71 percent of Namibia’s population under the age of 35, investment in young people and women is essential for sustained development.
Referring to local efforts, Daniel said the country had begun work on a National Tourism Spatial Master Plan, developed in line with the 2022 Namibia Tourism Satellite Account and UN Tourism methodologies.
She also took the opportunity to congratulate the newly elected Secretary-General of UN Tourism.
“Your election reflects the confidence and trust that member states have in your vision and leadership,” she said.
The minister also paid tribute to the outgoing Secretary-General for his contribution to the advancement of African tourism, expressing gratitude for his leadership, which has strengthened partnerships and driven progress.
