Maltahöhe:A rural development initiative based in Maltahöhe has been awarded global Gold in the Regenerative Tourism category at the 2026 Global Responsible Tourism Awards held in London. The initiative, known as RuralRevive, is driven by the Wolwedans Foundation and aims to bolster the local economy by integrating tourism with agricultural production, skills development, waste management, and small business opportunities.

According to Namibia Press Agency, RuralRevive previously achieved Gold at the World Travel Market Africa Responsible Tourism Awards. The initiative focuses on providing local farmers with training in climate-appropriate horticulture, using greenhouses and irrigation systems to enhance food production and supply fresh produce to tourism establishments. Additionally, it offers farmers the chance to sell their vegetables at The Barn.

RuralRevive also supports vocational training through the NTA-accredited Desert Academy Maltahöhe, which provides qualifications in horticulture and hospitality. The initiative was established in response to Maltahöhe's economic decline following the collapse of the karakul sheep industry, exacerbated by recurring droughts and limited employment opportunities.

Marika Raves, manager of RuralRevive, stated that the international recognition underscores the importance of ensuring that tourism benefits local communities. She emphasized the need to rethink who benefits from tourism and how those benefits are distributed, especially in a country with significant natural wealth alongside persistent rural poverty.

In November 2025, RuralRevive became an independent, not-for-gain association, while the Wolwedans Foundation continues to focus on horticulture, vocational training, recycling, and enterprise development. The initiative also received accolades at the Namibia Sustainable Development Awards in September 2026 for its contributions to community-led natural resource management and utilization.

The global award is expected to assist in attracting additional partners from the tourism industry, government, and development organizations to expand economic opportunities in Maltahöhe and the wider Hardap Region.