As tourist arrivals decline, safety to be strengthened
Namibia’s tourism sector recorded a marginal contraction in 2025, even as government officials emphasise the industry’s continued importance as a pillar of the national economy and a key driver of employment and foreign exchange earnings.
CHAMWE KAIRA
Namibia’s tourism sector recorded a marginal contraction in 2025, even as government officials emphasise the industry’s continued importance as a pillar of the national economy and a key driver of employment and foreign exchange earnings.
According to the ministry of environment, forestry and tourism, the country registered 1,217,108 tourist arrivals in 2025, representing a 3.2% decline from the 1,257,093 arrivals recorded in 2024.
While the decrease is statistically modest, the ministry has interpreted it as a critical signal requiring renewed strategic focus to sustain Namibia’s global competitiveness as a travel destination.
