Saturday, June 8, 2024 Namibia ’s restrictive new visa regime faces growing criticism of leading tourism and economic bodies. It is warning that the new policy could severely hamper the country’s tourism industry and economic growth. In a shock announcement on May 24, the southern African country’s Ministry of Home Affairs, Immigration, Safety and Security made public that Namibia’s cabinet had authorised the removal of 31 countries, including the majority of Namibia’s top overseas tourism source markets, from visa-exempt status, citing a lack of reciprocity.
Namibia’s Economic Policy Research Association (EPRA) has strongly opposed the move, calling upon the Namibian government to ‘engage in constructive dialogue with non-visa reciprocating countries to resolve underlying issues’. “By working together to address concerns and fostering a more cooperative approach, Namibia can protect its vital tourism sector and maintain its strong ties with key source markets. EPRA therefore strongly urges government to adopt a pro-business, best practice, evidence-based approach when it comes to policy formulation and implementation,” said Eben de Klerk, a member of the EPRA’s management committee.
A snap survey conducted by EPRA amongst 500 businesses found that 91% believed the restrictions would harm the tourism industry, 87% believed they would harm the economy in general, and 80% believed they would increase unemployment. De Klerk said that government had failed t.
