Lüderitz, Namibia

© Namibia Tourism Board

afrol News, 15 May - Namibia is sought to be one of the fastest travel and tourism destinations in the world in the next years. In a State of the Nation address presented this week by the President of Namibia, Hifikepunye Pohamba, he said the country's tourism has consistently soared in recent times.

"I am happy to report that according to the latest Tourism Satellite Account research released by the World Travel and Tourism Council for the period 2009 to 2018, Namibia is projected to have the fastest growth in travel and tourism industry in the world," he said. According to the Namibian tourism board, tourism is already one of the four main pillars in the country's economy, next to mining, fishing and agriculture.

Namibia already is one of the Southern African region's most successful tourist destinations, following South Africa. Political stability, security and astonishing nature have contributed to Namibia's success as a destination. The booming tourism industry is said to have an important impact on rural development.

In his speech, the Namibian Head State further noted that efforts to expand and improve service delivery on priority areas are paying off. "The social sectors of health, education and housing and provision of water and social grants have continued to enjoy government attention," he said.

Among the priority areas, the health sector was said to stand out. About 110 health facilities currently offer voluntary counseling countrywide.

The President also added that government would continue to intensify efforts on expansion of electricity with special emphasis to rural areas, promotion of sanitation where special focus to peri-urban areas, provision of portable water, expansion of infrastructure, employment creation and food production.

By Tankiso Spozo

© afrol News

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