Tourism decline a wake-up call- Daniel … as arrivals drop 3.2% in 2025

Auleria Wakudumo

The Minister of Environment, Forestry and Tourism Indileni Daniel has warned that the 3.2% decline in international tourist arrivals recorded in 2025 should be treated as a wake-up call for Namibia’s tourism sector.

The latest Annual Tourist Statistical Report points to both external pressures and domestic challenges affecting the country’s competitiveness.

Daniel made the remarks during the official launch of the Annual Tourist Statistical Report 2025 in Windhoek on Saturday, where she revealed that tourist arrivals dropped from 1 257 093 in 2024 to 1 217 108 in 2025, representing a 3.2% decrease.

She said while the decline may appear marginal, it carries significant implications for planning, investment, and the country’s global tourism positioning.

“We must treat it as a wake-up call and a clear signal to all of us to renew our focus and improve our competitiveness as a country to ensure that our value proposition continues to resonate with international travellers,” she said.