Namibia revokes visa-exempt status for 31 countries: 'We're shooting ourselves in the foot'

Lester Kiewit interviews Eben de Klerk of the Namibian-based Economic Policy Research Association.

Listen below.

On 24 May, Namibia’s Ministry of Home Affairs, Immigration, Safety, and Security made a surprising announcement: the country’s cabinet has decided to revoke visa-exempt status for 31 countries, including many of Namibia’s key overseas tourism markets, due to insufficient reciprocity. 

Effective 1 April 2025, Namibia will implement visa requirements for these non-reciprocating countries and increase visa fees for travellers from non-African Union (AU) member states.

Starting on this date, travellers from non-AU countries will be required to pay a visa fee of N$1,600 (R1,600 or €82).

The regional tourism sector is worried the move will deter many potential visitors.

De Klerk says the tourism industry had no opportunity to voice its concerns or participate in discussions or consultations.

"This was just pushed on us overnight."

- Eben de Klerk, Economic Policy Research Association

The Namibian government claims that this measure is a reciprocal action in response to Namibians not having visa-free access to those 31 countries.

De Klerk argues that if Namibia wishes to engage in geopolitical manoeuvres, it must have the necessary leverage, which he believes it currently lacks.

"There cannot be a win. We just shoot ourselves in the foot."

- Eben de Klerk, Economic Policy Research Association

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