Namibia is significantly advancing its tourism and gaming sectors through a combination of digital transformation, regulatory reform, and long-term strategic planning.
Tourism minister Indileni Daniel said a total of N$26.8 million has been allocated to the digital transformation of the Tourism and Gaming Industry, marking one of the most significant investments in modernising sector governance in recent years.
The funding will be used to digitalise key systems, including the Tourism Information Management System and the Gambling Central Monitoring System. These platforms are expected to improve data collection, enhance revenue tracking, and strengthen regulatory oversight across both industries.
Daniel said that the Gambling Board of Namibia has reported robust financial performance, generating more than N$49,5 million in 2025.
In addition to revenue growth, the sector has expanded its regulatory footprint, with 134 licences issued since the Board’s establishment, reflecting increased formalisation and compliance within the gaming industry.
She said the Lotteries Board of Namibia also recorded N$189 200 in revenue for the 2025/2026 financial year.
“Once the National State Lottery is fully established, the Board is projected to contribute approximately N$100 million to the Social Development Trust Fund within its first year of operation—positioning it as a potentially significant driver of social investment funding.”
Daniel further said that the ministry has commenced reviewing the National Tourism Policy while simultaneously developing a Tourism Bill and a National Gaming Policy and Regulations.
These reforms are aimed at strengthening governance, improving sector oversight, and aligning Namibia’s tourism and gaming frameworks with modern international standards.
She said that during the 2025/2026 financial year, the Ministry finalised the National Tourism Spatial Development Masterplan for the period 2025–2035, which will guide investment and regional development and position Namibia as a competitive and sustainable tourist destination.
Implementation of the Masterplan is set to begin in the 2026/2027 financial year, marking a transition from planning to execution.
Among the strategic priorities for 2026/2027 is a feasibility study for the development of Cultural and Eco-Tourism Villages. These initiatives are intended to showcase Namibia’s diverse cultural heritage while creating employment opportunities and supporting poverty reduction in rural communities.
The concept aligns with broader national goals of inclusive tourism growth, particularly in areas where economic opportunities remain limited but cultural and natural assets are strong.
For the 2026/2027 fiscal year, the environment, forestry and tourism ministry has been allocated more than N$736,8 million.
