Manila:MSC Cruises has announced the availability of approximately 200 job opportunities for Namibians in 2026. Out of these, 75 positions have been filled, while 130 are still open, according to the Namibia Investment Promotion and Development Board (NIPDB).

According to Namibia Press Agency, four of the successful candidates have already commenced their roles aboard MSC ships. The remaining hires are expected to embark on their new positions between November 2026 and March 2027, as stated by the NIPDB.

This initiative is part of a broader effort that began in mid-2023 with MSC Cruises, the world's third-largest cruise line. The initial recruitment drive in 2023 and early 2024 attracted over 8,400 applications, resulting in 42 offers and 25 positions filled. The roles cover various sectors, including hospitality, food and beverage, guest services, entertainment, retail, and beauty and wellness.

The NIPDB emphasized the potential of Namibian youth, stating that the country has talented and ambitious individuals ready to compete globally. The partnership with MSC Cruises aims to provide international work experience and skill-building opportunities for Namibians.

Eligible applicants must be Namibian citizens aged 18 or older, have completed Grade 10, 11, or 12, and be proficient in German. The NIPDB handles outreach and links eligible candidates to MSC Cruises, which offers the job placements. The partnership was chosen partly due to MSC's zero-tolerance policy on human trafficking.

The NIPDB highlighted the value of strategic partnerships in creating meaningful opportunities while addressing challenges like unemployment and poverty. The 2023 Labour Force Report by the Namibia Statistics Agency indicated that unemployment among 15- to 34-year-olds is at 44.1%, a decrease from 46.1% in 2018.