The Ministry of Environment, Forestry and Tourism, called for the protection of tourists and highlighted the importance of the tourism sector as an important national resource and a symbol of pride.
During a historic event, parliamentarians from all political parties represented in the National Assembly, stood in unity and support of Gondwana's Tourism Heroes campaign during an uncommon parliamentary tea break.
The Speaker of the National Assembly, Prof. Peter Katjavivi.
Photo: Gondwana Collection
Prof. Peter Katjavivi, Speaker of the National Assembly, highlighted the importance of the tourism sector for Namibia, emphasising that all Namibians would benefit from the travel industry, whether directly or indirectly.
Gondwana's Managing Director, Gys Joubert, introduced the 'Tourism Heroes' campaign: "This initiative aims to reward, recognise, and support individuals and entities that play a pivotal role in ensuring the safety, hospitality, kindness, care and preservation of Namibian tourism."
Joubert stressed that the initiative was not limited to Gondwana. Everyone is welcome to participate, he said. To start-off the campaign, Gondwana is providing one million Namibian Dollars, N$500,000 is in cash and N$500,000 is in kind for this cause. This will be facilitated by the Gondwana Care Trust.
Minister Shifeta expressed his gratitude and underlined the importance to strengthen collaboration between the Government of Namibia and the Tourism sector at large. The Minister also welcomed and appreciated the establishment of the Tourism Protection Unit by the Namibian Police. The unit will be operational in all 14 regions of Namibia and called on all Namibians to work together in the fight against crime.
At the end of the proceedings, the Minister handed over the first Tourism Heroes Award. It carried a reward of N$20,000 and went to the Tourism Against Crime (TAC) organisation.
Minister Shifeta handing over the Tourism Heroes award to Peter Boer from Tourism Against Crime (TAC). Photo: Gondwana Collection
TAC was established in 2020 and duly vetted by the Namibian Police Force (NamPol), the organisation has 18 members, all of whom are tour guides. They work closely with the Namibian Police to ensure the safety and well-being of tourists, not only during their tours but also off duty.
Tourism Minister Shifeta presented the award to TAC Chairman Peter Boer. He described the 'Tourism Heroes' campaign as pioneering and also paid tribute to NamPol's Tourist Protection Unit.
To collaborate with the Gondwana Tourism Heroes Campaign contact Gondwana via WhatsApp (+264-81 160 3466) or e-mail (tourismheroes@gcnam.com).
Nominations for the awards can also be communicated via these channels. This information will be worked through by an independent panel, awards or rewards will be tailored to individual needs.