Namibia's tourism minister will investigate how board members spent two million dollars on travel costs during five months. Environment Minister Indileni Daniel promised a thorough review after lawmakers questioned the spending pattern. Some directors earned between 300,000 and 600,000 dollars from these trips during 2024.
Opposition lawmaker Rodrick Likando asked parliament about the money used for foreign travel. He wanted to know what benefits the tourism industry received from these expensive journeys. The tourism board sets aside four million dollars each year for member travel and hotel costs.
Board members took at least 21 international trips since January. They visited Finland, Spain, Serbia, Germany and South Africa with government approval. Vice chairperson Rachel Koch flew first class on several occasions using tourism board funds.
Chairman Olavi Hamwele earned large travel payments for trips to Germany and France. Executive officer Sebulon Chicalu attended more than four international conferences. Tourism industry workers worry the money could help other important projects instead.
Board officials defend their travel spending as necessary business. They claim these trips help attract new tourists and strengthen relationships with existing partners. The minister promised to examine all travel records and expenses before taking action.
Opposition lawmaker Rodrick Likando asked parliament about the money used for foreign travel. He wanted to know what benefits the tourism industry received from these expensive journeys. The tourism board sets aside four million dollars each year for member travel and hotel costs.
Board members took at least 21 international trips since January. They visited Finland, Spain, Serbia, Germany and South Africa with government approval. Vice chairperson Rachel Koch flew first class on several occasions using tourism board funds.
Chairman Olavi Hamwele earned large travel payments for trips to Germany and France. Executive officer Sebulon Chicalu attended more than four international conferences. Tourism industry workers worry the money could help other important projects instead.
Board officials defend their travel spending as necessary business. They claim these trips help attract new tourists and strengthen relationships with existing partners. The minister promised to examine all travel records and expenses before taking action.
