N$260 million facelift for Mokuti
Mokuti Etosha has officially reopened following a N$260 million transformation, with owner OL Leisure describing the investment as a vote of confidence in Namibia's tourism industry.
The redevelopment, completed over four years, was officially marked on 3 July when Prime Minister Elijah Ngurare unveiled a commemorative plaque at the lodge's new SkyBoma.
Located on the doorstep of Etosha National Park, the lodge has been comprehensively upgraded since 2022. The refurbishment includes redesigned public areas, renovated guest rooms and junior suites, a new Ombala Presidential Suite, upgraded restaurants and a new SkyBoma.
OL Group executive chairman Sven Thieme said the investment reflected the company's long-term confidence in Namibia. “The investment in Mokuti is one of OL Leisure's clearest statements of our belief in the future of Namibian tourism,” he said. “We made this commitment after a global pandemic that devastated the hospitality industry because we believe Namibia is a premier global destination, and premier destinations deserve world-class tourism products.”
Job creator
The project also created jobs. During construction, 115 people were employed, including 111 Namibians, while around 15 local suppliers provided materials and equipment.
The lodge is also expanding its permanent workforce from 120 to 136 employees this financial year, supported by a further 13 fixed-term staff members.
In his keynote address, Ngurare thanked the OL Group for its continued investment in Namibia. “Thank you for choosing to build here, invest here and stay here,” he said. “We see your work, and we are grateful for it.”
He noted that tourism contributes about 6.9% of Namibia's gross domestic product, generates around N$14.3 billion in economic activity and supports more than 57 000 direct jobs.
While Namibia experienced a strong recovery in visitor arrivals during 2024, Ngurare said the decline recorded in 2025 showed that continued investment remains essential.
“Tourism cannot be taken for granted. It requires continuous investment, effective marketing, quality service and supportive policy to remain competitive,” he said.
Describing the redevelopment as an example of what can be achieved through local investment, Ngurare said the renewed Mokuti Etosha demonstrates “what Namibian investment in Namibian tourism can look like at its very best”.
