Namibia’s Meetings, Incentives, Conferences and Events (MICE) visa has generated more than N$1.5 million since its introduction in June, with 978 visas issued to international delegates attending conferences, meetings and business events across various sectors.
Speaking at the soft launch of the Namibia Convention Bureau (NCB), NCB manager Esther Ndilula said 22 events have been supported or co-hosted since June, spanning sectors including energy, mining, food systems, digital industries, communications technology, global business, and the creative and cultural industries.
She said the events have directly benefited a wide range of local service providers, including accommodation, transport, catering, branding, security, audiovisual services and event production.
The MICE visa applies primarily to delegates from non visa exempt countries, as well as speakers, moderators, media practitioners and other professionals attending events in an official capacity.
“By co hosted, this refers to events delivered in collaboration with the Namibia Investment Promotion and Development Board (NIPDB), with facilitation support provided through the bureau. These events span a range of sectors, including energy, food systems, digital and global business, metals and mining, related industries, communications and technology, as well as the cultural and creative industries,” Ndilula said.
She further explained that the NCB, which is housed under the NIPDB, is a destination marketing and coordination body that plays a central role in attracting and supporting business events.
Unlike convention centres, which are physical venues, the bureau markets Namibia as a destination, coordinates stakeholders, facilitates bidding for international events and collects data on economic impact.
Business tourism, commonly referred to as the MICE industry, is globally recognised as a high value tourism segment due to its strong links to trade, investment and knowledge exchange. Ndilula noted that international case studies such as Rwanda and South Africa demonstrate how targeted investment in the sector can deliver sustained economic returns.
She also said the MICE visa is a key incentive when bidding for international events, as simplified visa access is a major consideration for global event organisers.
Plans are underway to strengthen data collection through post event reporting, enabling real time tracking of economic impact and increased use of local service providers.
“The Convention Bureau has also secured membership with the International Congress and Convention Association (ICCA), a key global platform that provides access to international association meetings and bidding opportunities,” Ndilula said.
