Justicia Shipena
O&L Leisure’s acquisition of two hospitality properties, Le Mirage in the Sossusvlei area and Divava on the Kavango River, is awaiting approval from the Namibian Competition Commission (NaCC).
The announcement was made on Tuesday by O&L Leisure, a subsidiary of the Ohlthaver & List Group.
Sven Thieme, managing director of O&L Leisure and executive chairman of the O&L Group, said the acquisition supports the group’s “Namibia Through Our Eyes” vision and strengthens its footprint in key tourism areas.
“This expansion marks a key moment in realising our ‘Namibia Through Our Eyes’ vision, growing our presence across the country’s most coveted and storied destinations. These iconic desert and river locations perfectly embody this promise, bringing our unique hospitality approach to some of Namibia’s most treasured landscapes,” said Thieme.
He explained how the company selects its destinations.
“We don’t take our guests to just any place where there is a tree. We take our guests to a place where there is a story, history, and natural wonder,” he said.
The acquisition increases O&L Leisure’s portfolio to six destinations across Namibia.
These include sites along the Atlantic coast, in the mountains, and the desert and in wildlife areas.
Guests can experience destinations such as Sossusvlei in the Namib Desert and Big Five game viewing.
Speaking on behalf of the sellers, Ad Bouman said the two lodges would keep their identity but benefit from growth opportunities under the new ownership.
“We are proud to share that our lodges, Le Mirage in the iconic Sossusvlei area and Divava on the banks of the Kavango River, will be joining the O&L Leisure portfolio. O&L is a well-established and respected player in Namibia’s tourism sector. We have full confidence that both lodges will retain their unique identity while gaining new growth opportunities. We are especially reassured by their strong commitment to employee development and well-being – values that resonate with us,” said Bouman.
He said the properties would flourish under O&L Leisure’s direction.
The acquisition aligns with the O&L Group’s Vision 2029, which aims to position Namibia as a top travel destination.
The integration will expand the company’s national reach and bring the new properties in line with its brand standards.
“We are committed to integrating Le Mirage and Divava into the brand’s portfolio of authentic, caring and passionate world-class experiences, while honouring each region’s unique heritage,” said Thieme.
He confirmed that both properties will continue to operate during the integration process and that upgrades will focus on meeting the group’s service expectations.
“We are extremely excited about these acquisitions, which add to our commitment to showcasing Namibia’s beauty, diversity and soul through our eyes. Every guest can now experience our Namibian story, with each property serving as a gateway to this incredible country,” Thieme said.
