Namibia Tourism Board Denies Fraud Allegations: Unpaid Contractor Fees Scandal
The Namibia Tourism Board (NTB) has refuted accusations of fraud and non-payment made by Ghanaian marketing agency Hype.UP Limited, labeling the claims as unfounded. According to the NTB, a total of $36,837 was previously paid to Hype.UP, but the current administration found no supporting documentation for these payments. Hype.UP has alleged that the NTB owes a total of $51,123.92 for services rendered under contracts signed in 2023, primarily to promote Namibia’s tourism to Ghana and other African countries via campaigns such as the “November in Namibia” initiative.
NTB’s internal investigation found discrepancies, including an invoice submitted by Hype.UP five months before any formal agreements were in place. Additionally, invoices totaling $672,292 were purportedly submitted within a year, yet services linked to these were deemed unsubstantiated. Contracts with Hype.UP were eventually terminated due to a lack of evidence of services provided, citing concerns over potential fraudulent activities and invoking Clause 8.2 of the agreements for justified termination.
Hype.UP has filed complaints with Ghanaian and Namibian authorities alleging withheld payments. Meanwhile, NTB reaffirms its stance on ethical business practices and intends to address any legal claims while safeguarding against potential fraud. The dispute underscores disagreements over documentation, contractual obligations, and accountability.
Global Events: Key Takeaways from PCMA Convening Leaders
The PCMA Convening Leaders conference in Houston underscored the evolving dynamics of the global events industry and their implications for Africa. A key message was the importance of adopting a global perspective in event planning. David Kliman highlighted the necessity for planners to understand the intersections of global business and politics to stay relevant.
Kishore Mahbubani, a keynote speaker, emphasized Asia's rising global influence, using Singapore as an example of balancing cultural diversity. He pointed to China’s growing dominance in manufacturing, projected to reach 45% of the global share by 2030, and India's rapid ascent to becoming the third-largest economy within the same period.
Visa processing challenges also took center stage, with leaders like Saudi Tourism Authority CEO Fahd Hamidaddin advocating for digital visa solutions. Brand USA's Fred Dixon highlighted the need for competitive strategies to position destinations effectively in the global meetings market.
Adding a human element, Amal Clooney inspired attendees to pursue meaningful change through commitment and courage, urging them to contribute actively to justice and advocacy.
Further solidifying PCMA’s global vision, Neil Brownlee, the first non-North American appointed as the 2025 chair, pledged to use business events to drive economic and social progress, fostering inclusivity and equity across the industry.
UFI's 2025 Global Events: Melbourne, Cairo, & Thessaloniki
UFI, the Global Association for the Exhibition Industry, has announced its 2025 Regional Conferences, set to take place in Melbourne, Cairo, and Thessaloniki. These gatherings aim to unite industry professionals to address challenges, share insights, and explore trends shaping the global exhibition sector. Scheduled for February 13-14 in Melbourne, April 28-30 in Cairo, and June 3-7 in Thessaloniki, each conference is designed to foster regional collaboration while providing robust networking opportunities.
UFI CEO Chris Skeith OBE highlighted that these events are vital platforms for innovation, partnership building, and knowledge exchange within the exhibition industry. Representing a vast network of over 50,000 global exhibition industry professionals and nearly 900 member organizations across 90 countries, UFI underscores their commitment to driving meaningful face-to-face business opportunities through these initiatives.
The events will be hosted at renowned venues—Melbourne Convention and Exhibition Centre, Cairo International Exhibition Centre, and the TIF-HELEXPO facilities in Thessaloniki. UFI’s regional conferences not only reflect their dedication to quality and collaboration but also serve as pivotal touchpoints for exhibitors, organizers, and industry partners to stay ahead in an evolving market. These conferences represent UFI’s broader mission to champion growth and excellence across the global exhibition landscape.