Namibia registered a 37.81% growth in tourists’ arrivals last year to 354,508 compared to 192,026 in 2020, according to a media report citing a senior government official.
Tourism minister Pohamba Shifeta was quoted by Xinhua as saying this was an important achievement for the sector given the damage caused by the COVID-19 pandemic since 2020.
Ministry spokesperson Romeo Muyunda said Windhoek made several interventions to buoy the tourism sector such as relaxing some restrictions to encourage tourists to visit the country.
Hospitality Association of Namibia chief executive Gitta Paetzold said although 2021 was a tough year for the sector, they are hopeful of recording growth this year.
"…I believe there will be a slow and steady recovery and it is hoped that by mid-2022, tourism flow from international markets will pick up again," she said.
Tourism is a major contributor to Namibia's economy.
It was forecasted to contribute $756.7 million or 3.7% of total GDP by 2028.
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