The key functions of the Directorate of Tourism are:

1.       Tourism Policy and General Tourism Development

To provide leadership and guidance to the tourism sector of Namibia by reviewing tourism policy, establishing legal frame framework with full consultation with all stakeholders, and supporting regional tourism development plans.

2.       Regulation of Tourism Products

To ensure that the quality and quantity of Namibia‘s tourist facilities, services and attractions meet the needs of Namibia’s international and domestic tourists, - enhancing quality assurance development through industry self-regulation wherever possible, but introducing controls to ensure that Namibia’s future generations are protected from inappropriate developments.

3.       Compilation of Tourism Information

To collect, analyse and interpret relevant information on the tourism sector, to be able to plan, manage and develop the sector in the most effective and efficient ways.



4.       Community-Based Tourism (CBT) Development

 The Directorate has identified CBT as a high priority area because it is directly tied to rural development. The Directorate therefore, and with the assistance of other stakeholders, endeavours to expand community involvement in tourism through equitable private sector partnerships, training and capacity building and marketing so that Namibia’s communities, particularly those in rural areas without alternative economic support can earn sustainable income from tourists and at the same time have an incentive to protect the environment and natural resources that attract tourists.

See the presentation on the Grootberg Lodge in the #Khoadi //Hoas Conservancy.

5.       Tourism Awareness

To ensure a high level of awareness of the socio-economic importance of tourism among Namibians through regular dissemination of accurate and up- to date information.

6.       Participation in International Forums

Building Namibia’s profile in world tourism forums, World Tourism Organization, WTTC, SADC’s RETOSA, etc.

7.       Monitoring and Evaluation

To introduce controls to ensure that Namibia’s future generations are protected from inappropriate developments

8.       Gambling Regulations

To regulate the gambling industry through effective legislation, regulation and controls so that Namibia’s income from this activity continues to grow, by updating casino and gambling house legislation, introducing lotteries legislation and establishing a Namibian Betting Board.

View the Gambling Act