Germany warns tourists of rising crime in Namibia
Namibia urged to take situation seriously
German travellers are advised to avoid walking in remote areas.
Germany has issued an urgent travel warning for Namibia, along with several other countries, advising German tourists to exercise caution due to safety concerns and a rise in crime. As Namibia’s largest tourism source market, Germany joins Canada, the United States and the United Kingdom, which issued similar warnings late last year.The Namibian tourism sector has voiced concern over the growing challenges facing an industry that only recently recovered from the Covid-19 pandemic. Gitta Paetzold, chief executive of the Hospitality Association of Namibia (HAN), highlighted the pressure on the sector.
“It seems that numerous challenges lie ahead for Namibia’s tourism industry: high airfares, rising prices, service and infrastructure complaints in national parks, and now revised travel warnings, which countries typically issue after incidents involving tourists,” Paetzold said. “These warnings affect the perception of a destination.”
Such advisories are increasingly important for travellers as security risks rise worldwide. Visitors are encouraged to stay informed and take necessary precautions while in affected destinations.
According to the Ministry of Environment, Forestry and Tourism’s (MEFT) 2024 tourism statistics, 111 164 German tourists visited Namibia, confirming Germany as the country’s largest overseas source market, said spokesperson Vilho Hangula. HAN statistics show that the German-speaking market, including Germany, Austria, and Switzerland, accounts for 36% to 40% of bed occupancy.
Windhoek a hotspot
The warning specifically highlights security risks and rising crime in Namibia. While Germany considers the country politically stable, authorities have noted an increase in crimes targeting tourists’ belongings, particularly in the capital.
“In recent months, robberies - including violent attacks on travellers - have increased, often targeting tourists staying in remote areas and campsites. Windhoek has become a crime hotspot, with incidents peaking on Sundays and public holidays when fewer people are out,” German authorities warn.
Travellers have reported being followed from airports to accommodation, where they are distracted and robbed. Remote areas, such as northern regions and rural tourist sites, have also seen a rise in violent crime and theft. Fraud is another concern, with scammers targeting unsuspecting visitors at popular tourist attractions.
Security measures
German travellers are advised to avoid walking in isolated areas and never leave valuables unattended. Security precautions should be a priority, especially in remote regions.
Canada has issued a similar warning, citing robberies, burglaries and carjackings around Windhoek. Authorities also note a rise in financial fraud, including credit card cloning at hotels and lodges, and theft at ATMs.
Paetzold stressed that Namibia must take the warnings seriously. “Authorities such as MEFT and the Namibia Tourism Board (NTB) need to take a clear stance. Combating crime is a national responsibility, just like visa regulations and bilateral relations,” she said.
She added that the private sector continues to market Namibia as a unique, safe, and attractive destination. “We hope MEFT will soon implement the national spatial tourism development master plan to encourage an ‘all-of-government’ approach, creating the right conditions for tourism to thrive.”
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