The Ministry of Environment, Forestry and Tourism has said that they are currently engaged in the renovation of three entrance gates to Etosha National Park. The current entrance gates of Anderson, Von Lindqeuist and King Nehale Lya Mpingana will receive a total face lift.
In addition to the entrance gates, some sanitation facilities at ENP will be upgraded to “comfort stops”, consisting of toilets, picnic areas, information displays viewing platforms and adequate parking areas, all safely enclosed. The objective is to invite visitors travelling from one part of the park to another, to take a rest on the long journey, to access the information displays and enjoy the tranquility of nature in a safe and appealing environment.
The entire project is expected to be completed by July 2025 and to cost N$40.7 million.
A total of 8 sanitation facilities will be upgraded at Olifantsbad; Homob; Thatch Roof; Okerfontein; Andoni; Sprokieswood; Springbokfontein; Sonderkop. The ministry said they will also construct two new Comfort Stops at M’Bari between, Okaukuejo and Olifantsrus shall be constructed.
“Travelers visiting Etosha using these gates should note that there will be disruptions and perhaps dust and thus caution must be observed where required. During this process, safety protocols at the gates will be put in place by the contractor. Renovations have already started at Anderson gate,” the ministry’s spokesperson Romeo Muyunda said in a statement.
Similarly, the ministry will also upgrade facilities and infrastructure in Hardap National Park to the cost of N$7.2 million. This will include upgrading of 3 existing gates (Main Gate, Fish Route Gate & Game Park Gate); 2 existing ablution facilities or picnic spots (Lorralei & Bakvis) and construction of 4 new ablution facilities and picnic spots.
The upgrades are finaced through NamParks V’ project, a development programme of the Government of the Republic of Namibia executed by its Ministry of Environment, Forestry and Tourism (MEFT) and co-financed by the Federal Republic of Germany via (KfW) Development Bank.