No plans to sell lodges, NWR says
Amupanda claims ‘unfounded’
The entity says it recently issued a request for proposals for comprehensive audit and strategic services to assess the performance of some of its facilities.
Namibia Wildlife Resorts (NWR) has dismissed claims that the company is in the process of selling or transferring ownership of its 14 resorts and lodges.
Affirmative Repositioning (AR) leader Job Amupanda alleged on social media this week that the government had initiated a process on 31 January that would result in NWR "selling or handing over" 14 government-owned resorts or lodges through NWR. He claimed that agreements were already in place and that discussions had allegedly taken place with Europeans.
Following Amupanda’s allegations, NWR MD Matthias Ngwangwama issued a staff memo to clarify the matter. The letter was leaked online.
“I want to take this opportunity to assure all staff members that there are no plans to sell or hand over any NWR resorts or lodges,” Ngwangwama wrote.
He dismissed the claims, saying they are not based on facts and that employees should not panic.
Audit, service strategies
NWR spokesperson Nelson Ashipala further explained in a statement that NWR recently issued a request for proposals (RFP) for comprehensive audit and strategic services to assess the performance of some of its facilities.
Ngwangwama added that, as indicated in the RFP, the process aims to conduct an in-depth review of underperforming properties to identify ways to improve their efficiency, profitability, and overall sustainability.
“This process aligns with good corporate governance practices and aims to ensure that NWR remains financially sustainable while continuing to provide quality services to Namibians and international visitors alike.”
Unfounded claims
Ashipala said the claims circulating on social media are unfounded and misleading.
“NWR remains a government owned entity, and no plans exist to sell or privatise its properties. Our priority is to ensure the long term sustainability of our resorts while continuing to provide quality tourism experiences for local and international visitors."
He explained that the process is intended to identify opportunities for operational improvements and enhanced service delivery.
“It is a standard practice in responsible business management and should not be misinterpreted as a move toward privatisation.”
Ashipala clarified that the consultant may provide recommendations on a range of options, including forming a public-private partnership, outsourcing, or exploring other alternatives.
“Nowhere does it state that NWR will, however, sell off these properties, apparently to Europeans.”
Affirmative Repositioning (AR) leader Job Amupanda alleged on social media this week that the government had initiated a process on 31 January that would result in NWR "selling or handing over" 14 government-owned resorts or lodges through NWR. He claimed that agreements were already in place and that discussions had allegedly taken place with Europeans.
Following Amupanda’s allegations, NWR MD Matthias Ngwangwama issued a staff memo to clarify the matter. The letter was leaked online.
“I want to take this opportunity to assure all staff members that there are no plans to sell or hand over any NWR resorts or lodges,” Ngwangwama wrote.
He dismissed the claims, saying they are not based on facts and that employees should not panic.
Audit, service strategies
NWR spokesperson Nelson Ashipala further explained in a statement that NWR recently issued a request for proposals (RFP) for comprehensive audit and strategic services to assess the performance of some of its facilities.
Ngwangwama added that, as indicated in the RFP, the process aims to conduct an in-depth review of underperforming properties to identify ways to improve their efficiency, profitability, and overall sustainability.
“This process aligns with good corporate governance practices and aims to ensure that NWR remains financially sustainable while continuing to provide quality services to Namibians and international visitors alike.”
Unfounded claims
Ashipala said the claims circulating on social media are unfounded and misleading.
“NWR remains a government owned entity, and no plans exist to sell or privatise its properties. Our priority is to ensure the long term sustainability of our resorts while continuing to provide quality tourism experiences for local and international visitors."
He explained that the process is intended to identify opportunities for operational improvements and enhanced service delivery.
“It is a standard practice in responsible business management and should not be misinterpreted as a move toward privatisation.”
Ashipala clarified that the consultant may provide recommendations on a range of options, including forming a public-private partnership, outsourcing, or exploring other alternatives.
“Nowhere does it state that NWR will, however, sell off these properties, apparently to Europeans.”
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