Category: News

NWR and Namibia Public Workers Union to Sign MoU for Employee Salary and Housing Allowance Adjustments

 

Windhoek, Namibia – 21 May 2024 – Namibia Wildlife Resorts (NWR) and the Namibia Public Workers Union (NAPWU) are pleased to announce the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) aimed at improving the salary structure and housing allowance for employees within the bargaining unit. The MoU will come into effect on 1 November 2023.

 

Under this new agreement, all employees in job grades A1 to D3 who are currently below the minimum salary scale will be aligned to the new minimum (25th) percentile of the new salary scale. This adjustment ensures fair compensation for employees in the bargaining unit and recognises their valuable contributions to the organisation.

 

In addition to the salary adjustments, a total adjustment of N$ 5,500.00 on housing allowance will be implemented over a three-year period. This adjustment will commence in the 2023 financial year and continue through the 2025/2026 financial year. This phased approach aims to provide sustainable support to employees, enhancing their living conditions and overall well-being.

 

NWR and NAPWU are committed to fostering a positive and equitable work environment, ensuring that all employees receive fair and competitive compensation. This MoU represents a significant step towards achieving these goals and demonstrates the organisations’ dedication to the welfare of their employees.

 

We look forward to successfully implementing these changes and the continued collaboration between NWR and NAPWU.

Namibia Wildlife Resorts Achieves a Significant Milestone with a Historic Record Profit

 

Windhoek, Namibia – 21 May 2024 – Namibia Wildlife Resorts (NWR) Board and Management presented its annual report to the Ministry of Finance and Public Enterprises, Minister Ipumbu Shiimi, on the 20th of May 2023. The Honourable Minister of Environment, Forestry and Tourism, Hon. Pohamba Shifeta was also in attendance. The company proudly announced a historic N$46 million profit and a clean audit reports for two consecutive years, a testament to its unwavering commitment to effective governance and statutory compliance.

 

In a highly competitive environment, the company produced solid financial performance in 2023. Revenue increased by 32%, from N$294 million in 2022 to N$387 million. The overall bottom line was reduced by 231%, from a loss of (N$35) million in 2022 to a record profit of N$46 million in 2023.

 

Despite increasing inflation, fuel costs and repo rates during the year under review, operational expenses, excluding reversals on penalties and interest payments on statutory payments and loans settled, increased only by 7%, mainly driven by increased spending on repairs, renovations and maintenance of our facilities. The company continued to invest in our capital infrastructure. Repairs and maintenance was N$27 million [2022: N$23 million]. Maintaining our resorts and camps so as to improve customer experience and service delivery is one of NWR’s strategic intent.

 

The Managing Director, Dr Matthias Ngwangwama, was elevated by this positive news, remarking that “NWR continued to make good progress on its strategic value drivers of occupancy growth, revenue, expenses management, profitability and improvements on the balance sheet. The solid financial performance in 2023 and ever-improving profit and balance sheet metrics is a demonstration of our commitment to our national mandate of providing tourism-related services in national parks of Namibia and being an important government arm through which the tourism national objectives are to be met in line with its founding Act, the Namibia Wildlife Resorts Company Act (Act 3 of 1998)”.

 

On his turn, the Board Chairperson stated that, “Our financial performance continued to show resilience in 2023. In particular, long-term loans, statutory loans to financial development and commercial institutions, and tax authorities, which were long-standing challenges in the past, were fully settled in 2023, and the company attained a long-term debt-free status. We demonstrated that it is possible to achieve positive results in the public enterprises domain”.

 

NWR’s Annual Financial Statements are up to date, and an unqualified audit opinion was achieved for the 2023 statements, like in the previous year, 2022. This achievement reflects the hard work and dedication of the entire NWR team and underscores the company’s commitment to improved governance, transparency, and accountability.

 

Overall, NWR’s Annual Report reflects a commitment to excellence in all areas of its operations. The company remains dedicated to providing exceptional service to its guests while upholding the highest corporate responsibility and accountability standards.

Namibia Wildlife Resorts (NWR) Announces the Reopening of Bo-Plaas Campsite

 

Windhoek, Namibia – 30 April 2024 – Windhoek. Namibia Wildlife Resorts would like to announce the reopening of the Bo Plaas campsite, situated along the Orange River. As of April 30, 2024, the campsite has officially reopened its doors to visitors after a temporary closure for enhancements.

 

The closure of Bo Plaas was necessary to address increased security concerns and to expand the campsite’s facilities. With assistance from the Ministry of Environment, Forestry and Tourism, we have successfully implemented additional security measures and constructed extra ablution blocks, significantly improving the safety and comfort of our guests. At the reopening of the site, the Manager for Corporate Communications at NWR, Mr Nelson Ashipala, expressed his happiness at the opening of the camp. “Bo-Plaas serves as a great stopover for those travelling from Northern Cape and the surrounding areas. Now, they can come and enjoy Namibia again with extra security. Fish river hikers can also stop over for some great rest before they tackle the canyon.” he said.

 

These improvements are a testament to our unwavering commitment to ensuring the safety and comfort of all visitors. We invite everyone to come and experience the serene beauty of Bo Plaas, now more secure and accommodating than ever.

Ministry of Environment, Forestry and Tourism & Namibia Wildlife Resorts Announce Sufficient Water Levels for Hiking Season at Fish River Canyon

 

Windhoek, Namibia – 25 April 2024 – The Ministry of Environment, Forestry and Tourism, in collaboration with Namibia Wildlife Resorts, is pleased to announce that following a thorough appraisal of water resources in Fish River Canyon, there is sufficient water available for the upcoming hiking season. This means hikers can look forward to a rewarding experience with the May 1st, 2024 season commencing.

 

 

To ensure the safety and well-being of all participants, water marshals will be stationed at strategic points along the hiking routes, including King Palace and Bushy Corner. These marshals are part of our commitment to providing a secure and enjoyable hiking environment.

 

 

Additionally, Namibia Wildlife Resorts is excited to launch a new Responsible Hiking Campaign. This initiative aims to educate and prepare hikers for their adventures in Fish River Canyon. Starting next week, our social media channels will feature valuable tips on hiking preparation, safety, and environmental responsibility. These tips are designed to enhance the hiking experience while preserving the natural beauty of our environment. We encourage all interested hikers to stay tuned to our social media platforms for these updates and to prepare themselves for a memorable adventure in one of Namibia’s most breathtaking landscapes.

Namibia Wildlife Resorts Introduces Independence Special to Encourage Domestic Travel

 

Windhoek, Namibia – 28 February 2024 – Namibia Wildlife Resorts (NWR) is pleased to announce the introduction of its Independence Special, which encourages Namibians to discover the beauty of their own country by offering large discounts on accommodation at all NWR locations. The programme responds to Namibians’ worries about the high expense of recreational travel within the country.

 

 

With the Independence Special, NWR aims to address these concerns by making travel more accessible and affordable for Namibians. Starting 1st of March, all lodges under NWR’s management will be discounted by 60%, making it easier for locals to experience the diverse landscapes and unique wildlife that Namibia has to offer.

 

 

Nelson Ashipala, NWR spokesperson, emphasised the organisation’s commitment to making domestic travel more accessible to Namibians. “Through our recent engagements with the public, we have recognised the genuine concerns regarding the affordability of leisure travel,” Ashipala stated . “The special is open to all travellers but our hope is to see a strong uptake, mostly from locals”. As part of the special, popular lodges such as Khorixas Camp in Damara Land will be available for as little as N$220.00 per night, including breakfast. It’s important to note that while most lodges are included in the Special, seasonal camps such as the Miles along the coastline are not part of the discounted offer.

 

 

The Independence Special will run throughout the month of March, giving Namibians ample opportunity to take advantage of these exclusive discounts and embark on memorable adventures across the country. NWR encourages interested individuals to book early to secure their preferred accommodations.

Discover Namibia with Namibia Wildlife Resorts at ITB Berlin 2024

 

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Namibia Wildlife Resorts (NWR), the custodian of Namibia’s most enchanting wildlife and landscape experiences, is thrilled to announce its participation at the world-renowned ITB Berlin 2024. From March 5th to 7th, 2024, the Berlin Exhibition Grounds will transform into a melting pot of travel industry innovation, hosting over 24,000 attendees across four stages and 17 thematic tracks. Amidst this global gathering, NWR invites you to explore the natural wonders of Namibia at Hall 20, Stand Number 206.

 

ITB Berlin, the leading travel trade show, sets the stage for the latest trends in travel and tourism, offering keynotes, panel discussions, and awards on pioneering topics like travel technology, sustainability, and hospitality. This year’s theme, “Pioneer the Transition in Travel & Tourism. Together,” perfectly aligns with NWR’s commitment to sustainable and responsible tourism. As guardians of Namibia’s natural heritage, NWR is poised to share insights and initiatives that reflect its ongoing efforts to enhance visitor experiences while nurturing the environment.

 

NWR’s exhibit will showcase the vast spectrum of Namibia’s tourism offerings, from thrilling adventure travel and responsible tourism to unique cultural experiences and breathtaking landscapes. Attendees will have the opportunity to discover NWR’s latest activities, including its innovative approaches to cutting costs and improving services, alongside its social development initiatives, like empowering women with hospitality training in Namibia and South Africa.

 

The participation of industry leaders like Nishank Gopalkrishnan (CCO, TUI Musement) and Kristin Dorsett (CPO, Viator) in discussions on travel technology underscores the convention’s focus on advancing the sector. NWR is excited to contribute to these conversations, sharing its vision for integrating technology with tourism to enhance the guest experience in Namibia’s wilderness.

 

Organized by Messe Berlin GmbH, ITB Berlin has been a pivotal platform for tourism professionals since 1966. The 2023 edition saw an impressive turnout of 90,127 visitors and 5,500 exhibitors, setting the stage for another successful event in 2024. NWR’s history of participation at ITB Berlin demonstrates its commitment to elevating Namibia’s profile as a premier tourist destination on the global stage.

 

Join Namibia Wildlife Resorts at ITB Berlin 2024 to embark on a journey through the heart of Namibia’s majestic landscapes and wildlife. Experience the spirit of adventure, conservation, and unparalleled hospitality that defines NWR. Let’s pioneer the transition in travel and tourism together. See you at Hall 20, Stand Number 206, from March 5-7, 2024.

 

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    Namibia Wildlife Resorts Bolsters Khorixas Town’s Environmental Efforts with Significant Donation

     

    Windhoek, Namibia – December 6, 2023 – Namibia Wildlife Resorts (NWR), has reaffirmed its commitment to environmental stewardship by donating essential cleaning materials to the Khorixas Town Council. The donation includes gloves, refuse bags, and masks, aiming to support the town in maintaining a pristine environment.

     

    Khorixas Town, strategically positioned along the most scenic route and forming part of the gateway through the tourism triangle, also serves as the gateway to the Kunene region. Recognising the town’s pivotal role in promoting tourism, NWR is keenly aware of the importance of upholding cleanliness standards to enhance the overall visitor experience.

     

    The initiative reflects NWR’s dedication to environmental responsibility and underscores the organisation’s ongoing efforts to contribute positively to local communities. By providing practical resources such as gloves, refuse bags, and masks, NWR aims to empower Khorixas in its mission to keep the town and its surroundings clean and welcoming.

     

    Handing over the donation, NWR spokesperson, Mr Nelson Ashipala highlighted the importance of partnerships between organisations. “We see lots of traffic passing through Khorixas. We know this because we operate here. The least we could do is to ensure that we keep this beautiful town of ours clean” he said.

     

    Mr. Andreas Howoseb, the Chief Executive Officer of Khorixas Town, expressed his delight and gratitude upon receiving the generous donation from NWR. He emphasized the significance of collaboration between public and private entities in preserving the beauty of Khorixas, highlighting the positive impact such partnerships can have on the community and the broader region. The donation totalled N$ 10 000.00 and will see NWR staff commit to assisting the towns cleaning campaigns with logistics and manpower.

     

    NWR remains committed to promoting sustainable practices within the tourism industry, aligning with its broader mission of preserving Namibia’s natural beauty for future generations. The recent donation to Khorixas Town Council exemplifies NWR’s proactive approach to corporate social responsibility and its dedication to fostering a clean and attractive environment for residents and visitors alike.

    Namibia Wildlife Resorts Expresses Disappointment in Low Local Travel Uptake, Encourages Namibians to Explore Their Own Backyard

     

    Windhoek, Namibia – December 5, 2023 – Namibia Wildlife Resorts (NWR) has expressed disappointment in the relatively low number of Namibians taking up travel opportunities within the country. Despite concerted efforts to promote domestic tourism, the majority of visitors to NWR facilities remain Europeans, with a significant number hailing from Germany.

     

     

    From November 2022 to November 2023, a total of 511,984 European occupants visited Namibia Wildlife Resorts facilities, with an overwhelming majority, 35 013 or about 7% of our total clients, originating from Germany. South Africa’s market has shown resilience, contributing 90,296 guests to our resorts. We are also seeing an interest from the Botswana market, with 394 guests having visited our facilities.

     

     

    Out of total of 511 984 clients, 22 622 are Namibian luxury travellers. This equates to 4% of our local guests.

     

     

    Mr. Nelson Ashipala, NWR spokesperson, voiced the organisation’s concern and optimism for increased local engagement. “We are disappointed that more Namibians have not embraced the opportunity to explore the beauty of their own country through travel. While we welcome and appreciate our European visitors, we believe that local tourism is an essential component of our industry’s success.”

     

    Mr. Ashipala highlighted the proactive measures NWR is taking to encourage domestic tourism. “We understand that travel is a significant investment, and to make it more accessible for Namibians, we currently have special promotions running. These exclusive offers are tailored to entice our fellow citizens to experience the unparalleled beauty and hospitality our resorts have to offer. The SADC special is one of these.”

    Namibia Wildlife Resorts invites Namibians to take advantage of these special offers and rediscover the wonders within their own borders. The organization remains committed to fostering a vibrant local tourism sector that benefits both communities and the nation’s economy.

    Namibia Wildlife Resorts Encourages Namibians to Take Advantage Of New Black Friday Vouchers

     

    Windhoek, Namibia – November 16, 2023 – Namibia Wildlife Resorts (NWR) is delighted to announce its highly anticipated Black Friday Specials, tailored for all travellers but priced mostly for Namibians eager to explore the beauty of our country’s diverse landscapes and wildlife. As part of NWR’s commitment to making these experiences accessible, the Black Friday Specials will be available from November 24 to November 30, 2023.

     

     

    The limited Black Friday Special vouchers, priced at an N$1000.00 for bed & breakfast at Classic resorts and N$1999.00 for bed & breakfast at Eco Resorts, present a unique opportunity for local and international clients to embark on unforgettable journeys. These specially crafted vouchers are designed to facilitate travel from December 5, 2023, to April 30, 2024, allowing for flexibility and convenience in planning the perfect getaway.

     

     

    NWR understands its mandate to ensure that the wonders of Namibia are within reach for all citizens. The Black Friday Specials are a testament to this commitment, offering an affordable means for local tourists to experience the rich flora and fauna that our country is renowned

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    “We believe that everyone should have the chance to explore and appreciate the natural wonders that Namibia has to offer,” said Nelson Ashipala, Spokesperson at Namibia Wildlife Resorts. “Our Black Friday Specials are designed to provide an opportunity for Namibians to immerse themselves in the beauty of our country, with a focus on some of our recently renovated resorts. This is a chance not only to enjoy a memorable vacation but also to witness firsthand the dedication and effort NWR has put into maintaining these exceptional destinations.”

     

    To secure these exclusive vouchers, interested individuals are encouraged to act swiftly, as the limited availability is expected to generate high demand. The booking window opens on November 24, and vouchers can be purchased until November 30, 2023.

    NWR Hospitality Institute Celebrates Graduation of 69 Trainees in Hospitality and Tourism

     

    Okahandja, Namibia – November 14, 2023 – The Namibia Wildlife Resorts Hospitality Institute (NWR HI) on the 13th of November celebrated the graduation of 69 trainees in various specialisations within the hospitality and tourism sector. The ceremony took place at Gross Barmen in Okahandja, marking a significant milestone in the journey of these dedicated individuals.

     

    The training initiative, which commenced at two centers, Khorixas Rest Camp and Gross Barmen Resort, included 80 apprentices, of which 69 officially graduated. This comprehensive program was made possible through the funding provided under the Work Integrated Learning (WIL) initiative, facilitated by the Namibia Training Authority. Additionally, support was extended by the Kunene Regional Council, funding seven private students, and an additional 12 private students specialising in tour guiding.

     

    On this occasion, 69 trainees successfully completed their courses, earning qualifications in diverse areas such as front office operations, commercial cookery, housekeeping operations, food and beverage services, and local tourism guiding at level 3. The diverse skill set acquired by the graduates positions them as valuable assets to the burgeoning hospitality and tourism industry in Namibia.

     

    The importance of this achievement is underscored by the recognition of the tourism sector in Namibia’s National Development Plan 5 (NDP 5). The plan identifies the Tourism Industry as a pivotal contributor to the country’s economic growth. The successful graduation of these trainees aligns with the nation’s broader goals, emphasising the critical role that a skilled and motivated workforce plays in achieving economic objectives.

     

    The NWR Hospitality Institute extends its gratitude to all stakeholders, including the Namibia Training Authority, the Kunene Regional Council, and private sponsors, for their unwavering support throughout the training program. The Institute remains committed to nurturing talent and contributing to the development of a robust hospitality and tourism sector in Namibia.

     

    About NWR Hospitality Institute

    The NWR Hospitality Institute is a leading institution dedicated to providing high-quality training and education in the field of hospitality and tourism. With a commitment to excellence, the Institute strives to produce skilled professionals who contribute significantly to the growth and development of the industry in Namibia.

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