Namibian lodges and hotels implement hygiene concepts flawlessly

Inke Stoldt

The accommodation facilities of the well-known Namibian tourism company, Gondwana Collection Namibia have adapted perfectly to the new reality. The hygiene and safety standards of the World Health Organisation (WHO) have been implemented one hundred percent. This was confirmed by Eco Awards Namibia, whose independent inspectors visited most Gondwana lodges and the Delight Hotel in Swakopmund.

When the Covid-19 pandemic hit Namibia in March 2020, Gondwana immediately adapted its standard operating procedures for all service centres and lodges to comply with the guidelines to the tourism industry issued by the Namibian Government and the WHO. Updated Hygiene and Safety Measures were introduced to ensure the health of guests and staff, while still allowing guests to enjoy a wonderful Namibian holiday. 

Eco Awards Namibia usually runs a sustainable tourism certification programme. Similar to the star grading of hospitality establishments, Eco Awards Namibia rewards up to five desert flowers under the eco-label. Upon request from stakeholders in the Namibian tourism industry, Eco Awards agreed to act as an independent third party to inspect the tourism industry's compliance with the Covid-19 guidelines.

The inspections on a voluntary basis have started in June 2020. According to Eco Awards Namibia, all accommodation establishments in Namibia that have been inspected so far have been found to be 100 % compliant.