Ohlthaver & List (O&L) says it plans to continue acquiring tourism and hospitality assets in Namibia as part of a long-term strategy to expand its footprint in the sector.
The group confirmed that both its current and future acquisitions are part of a focused drive to create a network of high-quality destinations, each offering guests what it describes as “authentic Namibian experiences with world-class hospitality standards.”
This follows last month’s announcement of the pending acquisition of Le Mirage Resort & Spa near Sossusvlei and Divava Okavango Lodge & Spa in the Kavango Region.
“Yes, this is part of our ongoing expansion strategy as we continue to select ‘handpicked’ locations,” Managing Director of O&L Leisure and Executive Chairman of the O&L Group Sven Thieme, told The Brief.
“The pending acquisition of Le Mirage and Divava directly supports our Group’s Vision 2029 strategic growth plan and aligns with O&L Leisure’s ‘Namibia Through Our Eyes’ vision.”
Thieme said the group’s selection process is deliberate and rooted in storytelling and heritage.
“We don’t take our guests to just any place where there is a tree. We take our guests to where there is a story, history and natural wonder. We choose properties for their ability to immerse guests in the natural and cultural richness of Namibia and create a profound sense of place.”
He said the aim is to develop a “seamless luxury circuit” that gives visitors access to a wider range of Namibian experiences, while positioning the country as a premium global travel destination.
While the financial details of the latest acquisitions remain confidential, Thieme stressed that O&L is committed to investing in both properties and upgrading them in line with the group’s standards.
“When refurbishments do take place, they will be undertaken thoughtfully and in line with the approach across our other properties. Developments will ensure that guests experience the same authentic, caring and passionate customer service, product offerings and people interactions that define our ‘Namibia Through Our Eyes’ philosophy,” he said.
Both Le Mirage and Divava will continue operating during the integration and upgrading phases, and enhancements will be made to bring them in line with O&L’s existing offerings while respecting their individual character and heritage.
“As a proudly Namibian company with foundations firmly rooted in the country since 1919, our proposed investment in Le Mirage and Divava represents our ongoing commitment to support Namibia’s tourism industry, contribute to the country’s economic growth and our confidence in Namibia as a premium destination,” Thieme said.
He added that O&L’s approach includes creating jobs, building skills and supporting communities across the regions in which it operates.
O&L Leisure currently owns and manages several properties including Chobe Water Villas, Strand Hotel Swakopmund, Mokuti Etosha, and Midgard.
“Each O&L Leisure property offers something special, but what truly sets us apart are the authentic, caring and passionate people who embody the O&L Persona,” said Thieme. “These team members are committed to making every visit worthwhile and creating experiences so memorable that guests will want to return time and again.”
He added that O&L Leisure recognises the value of all players in Namibia’s tourism sector.
“We celebrate all hospitality companies and accommodation establishments in Namibia as unique and owning their rightful place in the country’s tourism landscape,” he said.
O&L says it will continue to pursue strategic opportunities in the hospitality sector while maintaining a diversified presence across other industries, reaffirming its position as Namibia’s largest privately held business.
