Namibia Tourism Board Welcomes Sebulon Chiliho Chicalu as New CEO

The Namibia Tourism Board (NTB) has announced the appointment of Mr. Sebulon Chiliho Chicalu as its new Chief Executive Officer, effective 1st March 2025. With a proven track record in the tourism and hospitality industries, Mr. Chicalu is set to bring dynamic leadership and innovative strategies to further position Namibia as a top travel destination in Africa.

A Seasoned Leader in Tourism Innovation

Mr. Chicalu’s career spans decades of experience in travel, tourism, and business strategy. Known for his expertise in tourism product innovation and development, he has consistently delivered impactful results in executive management and board-level roles. His background includes spearheading the launch of various hospitality services and overseeing major business events that have contributed to the growth of Namibia’s tourism industry.

Prior to joining NTB, Mr. Chicalu served as the Director of Tourism and Gaming at the Ministry of Environment, Forestry and Tourism. In this role, he played a pivotal part in shaping Namibia’s tourism policies and initiatives, ensuring the sector remained competitive and sustainable. His experience has equipped him with a deep understanding of the challenges and opportunities within Namibia’s travel industry, making him an ideal candidate to lead NTB into its next chapter.

In addition to his extensive tourism expertise, Mr. Chicalu is a certified GALLUP Strengths and Talent Development Coach. His skills as a mentor, negotiator, moderator, and public speaker further enhance his ability to drive employee engagement and foster collaboration across the tourism sector. These qualities will undoubtedly contribute to his success in leading NTB and building strong partnerships with stakeholders locally and internationally.

Academic and Professional Excellence

Mr. Chicalu holds an impressive array of academic qualifications, including a Master of Business Administration (MsM), a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration, an Advanced Diploma in Business Administration, and a Diploma in Marketing Management. He is also certified in Corporate Governance and as a GALLUP Clifton-Strengths Coach, underscoring his commitment to professional development and strategic leadership.

His academic background complements his practical experience, providing him with the tools to address the complexities of Namibia’s tourism industry while fostering innovation and sustainable growth. As CEO, Mr. Chicalu’s vision for NTB will focus on strengthening Namibia’s global appeal and solidifying its reputation as a must-visit travel destination.

Driving Growth and Innovation for Namibia’s Tourism Sector

The NTB Board expressed its confidence in Mr. Chicalu’s ability to steer the organization toward a prosperous future. In a statement, the Board highlighted that his appointment would “further enhance Namibia’s position as a preferred travel destination, driving growth and innovation within the tourism sector.”

Namibia, known for its stunning landscapes, such as the iconic dunes of Sossusvlei, the wildlife-rich Etosha National Park, and the dramatic Skeleton Coast, has long been a favorite destination for nature enthusiasts and adventure travelers. Under Mr. Chicalu’s leadership, NTB is expected to build on these strengths by diversifying its tourism offerings and tapping into emerging travel trends to attract more visitors from Africa and beyond.

Opportunities for African Travel Professionals

For African travel professionals, Mr. Chicalu’s appointment signals exciting opportunities for collaboration and growth. With a focus on innovation and stakeholder engagement, NTB under his leadership is likely to introduce fresh initiatives aimed at boosting Namibia’s tourism sector. Travel agents and operators can look forward to potential partnerships that leverage Namibia’s unique attractions and expand its reach in regional and international markets.

As Namibia continues to grow as a destination of choice, Mr. Chicalu’s strategic leadership will play a key role in ensuring the country maintains its competitive edge in the global tourism landscape. His appointment marks a new chapter for NTB, one that promises to drive sustainable growth, enhance visitor experiences, and strengthen Namibia’s position as one of Africa’s premier travel destinations.