New Sossusvlei concession to channel N$100m to communities
A company awarded a 25-year contract to transport tourists to Sossusvlei in the Namib Desert says the concession is poised to channel more than N$100 million into communities.
About Africa Co was awarded the contract after Namibia Wildlife Resorts (NWR) failed to submit its bid on time.
Tourism minister Pohamba Shifeta said 75% of the Sossusvlei Shuttle-Farm Arbeid Adelt campsite concession was awarded to the Maltahöhe and !Karkhoen communities, with government retaining 25%.
The concession will also give About Africa the right to operate a campsite, conduct guided hiking and develop and operate a kiosk in the area.
Co-owner Heiko Dörgelo said securing the concession was marked by their unwavering adherence to the principles to fairness and transparency.
“We embarked on this journey not solely for the advancement of Namibia’s tourism, but with a steadfast commitment to fostering sustainable and community-focused initiatives,” he said.
Transformative
According to him, the concession will channel more than N$100 million into the involved communities, marking a transformative departure from previous engagements where the services and activities bore benefit only to the operator, and nothing for the community.
“Our corporate social responsibility plan outlines not just the financial benefits exceeding N$100 million, but also a comprehensive approach to community engagement and development.”
This includes initiatives aimed at education, health and sustainable development, he said, underpinning About Africa’s commitment to a future where community benefits and sustainable tourism practices are intertwined.
About Africa Co was awarded the contract after Namibia Wildlife Resorts (NWR) failed to submit its bid on time.
Tourism minister Pohamba Shifeta said 75% of the Sossusvlei Shuttle-Farm Arbeid Adelt campsite concession was awarded to the Maltahöhe and !Karkhoen communities, with government retaining 25%.
The concession will also give About Africa the right to operate a campsite, conduct guided hiking and develop and operate a kiosk in the area.
Co-owner Heiko Dörgelo said securing the concession was marked by their unwavering adherence to the principles to fairness and transparency.
“We embarked on this journey not solely for the advancement of Namibia’s tourism, but with a steadfast commitment to fostering sustainable and community-focused initiatives,” he said.
Transformative
According to him, the concession will channel more than N$100 million into the involved communities, marking a transformative departure from previous engagements where the services and activities bore benefit only to the operator, and nothing for the community.
“Our corporate social responsibility plan outlines not just the financial benefits exceeding N$100 million, but also a comprehensive approach to community engagement and development.”
This includes initiatives aimed at education, health and sustainable development, he said, underpinning About Africa’s commitment to a future where community benefits and sustainable tourism practices are intertwined.
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