NTB drives tourism skills to empower communities and youth

The Namibia Tourism Board (NTB) is taking a proactive step to strengthen the country’s tourism sector by implementing a capacity-building training programme in collaboration with the Ministry of Environment, Forestry and Tourism.

The initiative brought together stakeholders from across Namibia, with a strong focus on deepening understanding of tourism systems, governance and sustainable development opportunities within the Kavango Zambezi Transfrontier Conservation Area (KAZA TFCA) — one of the world’s largest conservation landscapes.

NTB spokesperson Flora Quest said participants took part in a series of interactive sessions designed to build practical knowledge and skills.

Key topics included community-based natural resource management, tourism's role as an economic driver, and strategies to increase youth participation in the sector. The programme placed particular emphasis on empowering local communities to benefit from and contribute to tourism development.

Quest said NTB’s involvement highlights its commitment to grassroots capacity-building, recognising that sustainable tourism growth depends on informed and engaged communities.

By equipping participants with relevant tools and insights, the training aims to unlock new opportunities for entrepreneurship and inclusive economic participation, particularly in rural areas linked to conservation zones, she said.

She added that the programme also served as a platform for knowledge-sharing among stakeholders, encouraging collaboration and the exchange of ideas on how to maximise tourism’s impact. With Namibia’s rich natural assets and community-based conservation model, strengthening local capacity remains central to maintaining the country’s competitive edge as a destination.

Quest emphasised that continuous skills development and stakeholder engagement are essential to ensuring long-term sustainability in the tourism sector.

She noted that initiatives such as this not only build expertise but also help align national tourism goals with community-level implementation.

The programme focused on practical application, innovation and collaborative approaches to tourism development. Outcomes are expected to contribute to a more inclusive and resilient tourism industry, reinforcing Namibia’s position as a leading destination in Africa.

Established under the Namibia Tourism Board Act of 2000, NTB is mandated to market the country internationally, regulate tourism establishments and promote sustainable tourism development in partnership with industry stakeholders.