NIPDB Partners With MSC Cruises to Create Jobs for Namibians

The Namibia Investment Promotion and Development Board (NIPDB) has partnered with MSC Cruises to create employment opportunities for Namibians, with 130 vacancies remaining open after nearly 200 positions were made available this year.

In a statement issued on Thursday, NIPDB noted that the partnership, which began in mid-2023, connects eligible Namibians with international jobs aboard cruise ships in hospitality, food and beverage, guest services, entertainment, retail, beauty and wellness, according to the NIPDB.

The initiative comes as Namibia continues to face high youth unemployment, with data from the Namibia Statistics Agency’s 2023 Labour Force Survey, revealing that unemployment among Namibians aged 15 to 34 stood at 44.1%.

NIPDB said the partnership’s initial recruitment drive, conducted in 2023 and early 2024, attracted more than 8,400 applications, of which, 42 candidates received job offers, while 25 took up positions aboard MSC cruise ships.

According the statement, 75 candidates have received employment offers this year, with four having already departed to begin work. The remaining successful candidates are scheduled to embark between November 2026 and March 2027.

The board further stated that it is responsible for raising awareness about these opportunities, engaging key stakeholders, and connecting eligible candidates with MSC Cruises, further stating that the cruise line provides jobs while exposing successful applicants to a dynamic international working environment.

The NIPDB said the experience can help candidates develop practical skills, gain exposure to international workplace standards and strengthen their long-term career prospects.

The board also cited MSC Cruises’ commitment to human rights, transparent business practices and a zero-tolerance approach to human trafficking as considerations in the partnership.

The current recruitment opportunities are open to Namibian citizens aged 18 and older who have completed Grade 10, 11 or 12 and are proficient in German. Applicants must also meet the requirements of individual positions.