Namibia’s drive to revitalize its tourism industry has led the Namibian Tourism Board (NTB) to focus on Eastern Europe. Over the last five months, the NTB has launched an extensive marketing campaign designed to enhance its visibility and strengthen ties with the travel industry. The aim is to solidify Namibia’s existing market presence while also exploring new avenues to attract adventure-seeking travellers.
Following a successful stint at the Africa Showcase during a U.S. Roadshow, where Namibia was effectively promoted as a must-visit destination, the NTB has now wrapped up a crucial engagement with travel agents and specialists in Central and Eastern Europe.
This comprehensive roadshow took the Namibian tourism team to key Eastern European cities, including Warsaw, Poland; Prague, Czech Republic; and Budapest, Hungary. The program involved a series of workshops, seminars, and networking sessions.
Charmaine Matheus, Head of Marketing, stressed the importance of the European market as a longstanding attraction for Namibia. She highlighted the significance of maintaining and expanding their presence in this market, particularly in the context of the changes brought about by the pandemic. These roadshows serve as a vital platform for the Destination Management Organization (DMO) and key stakeholders to explore opportunities for growth and collaboration in the post-pandemic landscape.
Matheus further explained that the roadshow helps identify potential bottlenecks and addresses critical aspects such as airlift and access, which are essential for fostering strong trade relationships. The engagement successfully involved approximately 500 stakeholders in Warsaw, Prague, Bucharest, and Budapest, who actively participated in this important initiative. This strategic push into the Eastern European market is part of Namibia’s broader efforts to welcome back travellers and boost its tourism sector.
