Tourism associations turn backs on NTTF

ELLANIE SMIT WINDHOEKThe Federation of Namibian Tourism Associations (Fenata) has officially distanced itself from the Namibia Travel and Tourism Forum (NNTF) due to its “malicious attacks and slander of established tourism bodies”.It said this discord has hugely damaged the tourism industry.In a statement issued by Fenata, the association said it recently held a meeting with members of its executive committee and those of other member associations.The aim was to realign the organisation internally and to facilitate a united strategy going forward.The associations present at the meeting were the Namibia Professional Hunting Association, Car Rental Association of Namibia, Emerging Tourism Enterprises Association, Tourist Guides' Association of Namibia, Hospitality Association of Namibia (Han), Tour and Safari Association of Namibia, Association of Namibian Travel Agents and Namibian Academy for Tourism and Hospitality.Fenata said during this “productive” meeting, all parties had the opportunity to voice their concerns and recommendations.“All parties reaffirmed their commitment towards the chairlady, Netumbo Nashandi, as well as the mandate of Fenata as an umbrella organisation of all its tourism association members, generally accepted and considered as the voice of tourism in Namibia.” Working togetherFenata said it is important that its executive committee works together in harmony, acting and speaking with one voice.“While it is obviously clear that not all entities that operate in the Namibian tourism sector are members of any association, the problems and challenges remain the same for all and the efforts and work done by Fenata and/or its member associations are ultimately to the benefit of all tourism stakeholders.”It said a good example of this was the latest initiative where the government was successfully requested to amend the Covid-19 regulations pertaining to the 72-hour PCR test validity for tourists arriving in Namibia.“This undoubtedly was to the benefit of every single tourism stakeholder in Namibia and highlights the role that we play in the industry,” Fenata said.Fenata said it represents the diversity of the Namibian tourism sector, supports inclusivity and aims to be a unified voice in questions of common concern.“Any claims to the contrary totally lack tourism insight and are plainly misplaced.”DisruptiveFenata said all members present at the meeting decided to formally distance themselves from any entity or individual who is disruptive and causing havoc in the Namibian tourism industry.“Fenata therefore officially distances itself from NTTF as its ongoing malicious attacks, slander of established tourism bodies and Fenata as a whole have a hugely damaging effect – locally and internationally - to the unity and image of Namibian tourism.”Fenata said its member associations also unequivocally declared their support for Han and any other members who have been criticised by NTTF at a time when unity and collaboration are critical for Namibian tourism’s survival.ellanie@namibiansun.com

Tourism associations turn backs on NTTF

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Namibian Sun 2025-04-03

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Tourism associations turn backs on NTTF

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Namibian Sun 2025-04-03

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