The Ministry of Environment, Forestry and Tourism has appeased operators and members of the public after they have raised concerns over concession rights awarded at Sossusvlei.
Operators and lodging establishments registered with the Namibia Tourism Board (NTB) are still able to provide free accommodation to guests under a recently granted concession at Sossusvlei in the Namib Naukluft Park, the ministry says.
This comes as the public and tour operators noted their concerns regarding the awarded concession rights in the area.
Ministry spokesperson Romeo Muyunda has reassured the public that the concession does not prohibit other tour operators from accessing Sossusvlei for business.
He says the concession will help NTB-registered tour operators by limiting unauthorised operators in the area, as well as unwanted vehicles, like trucks, buses, and two-wheelers.
“The concession seeks to preserve the environment to meet the criteria of a world heritage site. It is crucial to remember that only the concessionaire is permitted to pick up guests from the 2×4 parking. Kindly note that under no circumstances can the ministry privatise any area of the protected areas,” he says.
Muyunda says the ministry will notify the public of any new information on the execution of the concession.
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