The Namibia Investment Promotion and Development Board (NIPDB) says the country is spearheading efforts to position itself as a one-stop destination for MICE (Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, and Exhibitions) business tourism.
NIPDB’s CEO, Nangula Uaandja, said with Namibia traditionally known for its breathtaking landscapes and wildlife safaris, NIPDB aims to capitalise on the untapped potential of business tourism to attract visitors year-round and create sustainable economic opportunities for the nation.
“Our partnerships should align with these priority sectors. For example, tourism and oil are significant for us. Tourism, particularly through business events, can drive economic activity throughout the year, not just during the peak season from May to October,” she said.
This comes as Namibia is set to host three major conferences scheduled for later this year.
“Regarding events, it’s not a question of whether there are too many because each event serves a different purpose. Events bring together industry players across the entire value chain, including investors, exploration companies, and others, to discuss the development of the energy sector, including oil, gas, and renewables,” she said.
She said this at the launch of the 2nd Edition of the Namibia Oil and Gas Conference 2024, slated from the 20th to the 22 August 2024.
“This particular event aims to ensure inclusivity by involving the private sector, young people, students, academia, civil society, and Namibians, along with our international partners, to have a comprehensive conversation where everyone is included,” said Uaandja.
The conference will be hosted by the Economic Association of Namibia (EAN), in partnership with NIPDB, the Hanns Seidel Foundation Namibia, a strategic partnership of the National Petroleum Corporation of Namibia and the official endorsement of the Ministry of Mines and Energy Namibia.
EAN Chairperson, Jason Kasuto, highlighted the need for a strategic blueprint to ensure investments create sustainable value chains and uplift living standards in Namibia.
He further called for open discussions on energy transition and climate change, stressing the importance of integrating the oil and gas sector with the rest of the economy.
With over 70 renowned speakers, panel discussions, master classes, and exhibitions, he said this year’s conference is set to be the largest and most attended in Namibia!
Meanwhile, Uaandja Namibia has substantial oil potential, and it’s crucial to develop it properly.
“We need to ensure we are active participants in these conversations to avoid missing out on opportunities. The government is committed to facilitating these discussions and ensuring Namibia finds its niche in the oil industry,” she added.
Namibia’s national hotel occupancy rate surged by nearly seven percentage points to 58.1% in April 2024, exceeding pre-pandemic levels recorded in April 2019.
A report by Simonis Storm attributes this growth partly to an increase in conferences and events.
According to the report, conferences like the international energy conference held in April played a key role in filling hotel rooms.
