The transformation of Ohlthaver & List's four hotels into a five-star Kempinski brand, the world-renowned hotel flagship, has been completed, says Ohlthaver & List Group of Companies. This follows an N$550 million joint venture agreement between O & L and the Kuwait based IFA Hotels and Resorts last year. The new joint venture company, OLIFA, will own the four hotels that previously belonged to Namib Sun Hotels and European-based Kempinski will manage them.

“We have completed the structuring and organising of the head office,” said the chief spokesperson for O&L group, Patrick Hashingola, adding that the upgrade of its flagship Mokuti Lodge was in full swing while the development of the Strand Hotel in Swakopmund was pending regulatory approval.
Hashingola said out of the 173 employees at Namib Sun Hotels, a total of 84 employees have joined OLIFA. The rest of the employees will remain with Namib Sun Hotels, which still own and manage Thuringer Hof Hotel and Midgard Lodge.
The sequential redevelopment of Mokuti Lodge commenced early April involving the complete revamping of the main building, including reception area, lounge, restaurant and kitchen, and in due course a soft upgrade of the rooms and landscaping.
“Operations are ongoing and our people are doing their utmost to attend to our guests to minimise inconveniences during the redevelopment,” said Hashingola. The first phase is scheduled for completion in June this year where after Mokuti Lodge will operate as Kempinski Mokuti Lodge – the first five star lodge in the Etosha National Park and in Namibia.
In addition, Hashingola said staff members are undergoing extensive training to meet the standards of a five star establishment. A spa, luxury tented camp, waterholes and viewing platforms with food and beverage outlet will also be added to the lodge.
Strand Hotel in Swakopmund closed its doors last month and waits for the regulatory approval from the Swakopmund Municipality before the hotel is demolished to make way for a new 5-star hotel. The Chobe Kings Den in Caprivi region is also next on the line for a revamp. It will also be turned into a five-star lodge.
The fourth five star hotel will be constructed in Windhoek. Construction is expected to commence towards the end of this year.