//Karas holds promising future for Namibia

When developments such as the green hydrogen project is realised, it will signify a turning point in the history of the //Karas Region. This according to environment and tourism minister Pohamba Shifeta, who said “towns like Oranjemund, Lüderitz, Rosh Pinah and other outlaying centres will soon become premier development hubs of Namibia for a variety of reasons”.He said government has been promoting not only green hydrogen projects, but also the potential around the blue economy.Shifeta was speaking at the seventh annual general meeting of the Public Enterprises CEOs Forum and Sports Games held in Oranjemund.It took place under the theme ‘Reimagining Public Enterprises as Catalysts for Innovation’.The minister said over the last few years, they have been hard at work to unleash business opportunities around the proclamation of the Tsau ǁKhaeb National Park, formerly known as the Sperrgebiet.According to him, the national park is one of a &#039;new era’ of protected areas, proclaimed to protect biodiversity while contributing to the local and national economy.The Tsau ǁKhaeb National Park is located in the Namib Desert, spanning the length of Atlantic Ocean coast from Oranjemund on the border with South Africa to around 72 kilometres north of Lüderitz, a distance of 320 km.It offers new tourist opportunities, from giant rock arches, meteor craters and fossil and archaeological sites to Africa&#039;s most important shipwreck discovery, to mention a few.Tourism concessionsShifeta said tourism concessions have been identified and developed that may include desert experiences, Kolmanskop ghost town tours, Orange River boating and many more activities, set to offer visitors new experiences.All planned activities will be guided by concession operators.“Today our towns and regions face unique challenges because of their population growth, which is outpacing delivery of jobs, housing and general services. We also face great challenges in terms of the accompanying amenities.”According to the minister, new economic realities point out that towns and regional economies may no longer function as they once did.“Towns and regions that thrive in this age and time are those who will be differentiated by their lively neighbourhoods and business districts, cultural and recreational attractions, great sense of safety, protected natural areas and deep pride in local character, products and foods. It is about identifying and supporting the forces that are already at work in the economy.”He added that changing economic circumstances of towns require effective strategic planning by local, regional and national authorities, working in partnership with the private sector including public enterprises.“However, attracting and retaining new talents proves to be challenging to some towns. When it comes to securing workers and professionals, this is really [about] more than just good pay and benefits. Professionals evaluate the quality of life of a community when deciding where to live and work.”

//Karas holds promising future for Namibia

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Namibian Sun 2025-05-06

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//Karas holds promising future for Namibia

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Namibian Sun 2025-05-06

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