Staff Reporter
THE management of the Dune 7 Concession inside Dorob National Park will soon be handled by Sandwich Dune Tours and Safari on behalf of the Ministry of Environment, Forestry, and Tourism.
This was announced by Romeo Muyunda, the Public Relations Officer of the environment ministry, who confirmed that the Dune 7 Concession had been awarded to Sandwich Dune Tours and Safari.
“The popular recreational area has off recent sparked criticism and public outcry on its state characterised by littering, vandalised ablution and water infrastructure. The Ministry has since renovated the area and added more toilets for the convenience of our visitors. As a long-term solution, the Ministry advertised a tender for interested individuals and companies to manage the area on behalf of the Ministry,” Muyunda explained.
The tender process, he added, commenced on November 16, 2022, and concluded on January 27, 2023. Muyunda revealed that 18 companies expressed interest in the tender, and Sandwich Dunes Tours and Safari emerged as the successful bidder.
Muyunda said that Sandwich Dunes Tours and Safari is expected to assume management of Dune 7 in the near future. The company plans to employ at least 45 workers as part of its operations, Muyunda said.
He further disclosed that the company would offer various adventure activities at the recreational park, including paragliding, dune climbing, stargazing, and tours to Walvis Bay. Additionally, the ministry has granted the company the option to erect and operate a tethered hot air balloon.
“Sandwich Dunes Tours and Safari will also develop a restaurant that is open daily and can host special events like weddings or corporate functions. The restaurant will include a swimming pool and a bar that will be open till late,” he added.
Muyunda revealed that visitors will have the convenience of staying overnight in the area as the company plans to construct ten chalets. While entrance to the restaurant will be free, he mentioned that the company will charge various fees for other Dune 7 activities. The details of these fees will be communicated once the company begins operating.
File photo for illustrative purposes only.
