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Economic development

President Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah Highlights Trade Fairs as Vital Platforms for Economic Growth

Strategic Insights

— 1 min read

President Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah emphasized the significance of trade fairs in promoting business growth and entrepreneurship during the opening of the 24th Ongwediva Annual Trade Fair (OATF) on Sunday. The event, held under the theme 'Innovate - Connect - Prosper', brought together entrepreneurs, Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs), and town councils to explore new markets and forge partnerships. President Nandi-Ndaitwah commended the initiative and encouraged participants to utilize the platform to engage, collaborate, and advance shared prosperity. The OATF is a key component of Namibia's sixth National Development Plan (NDP 6), focusing on economic growth, transformation, and resilience.

Key Takeaways:

  • The Ongwediva Annual Trade Fair (OATF) provides a platform for businesses to refine their operations, contribute to Namibia's economic development, and explore new markets and partnerships.
  • President Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah highlighted the importance of trade fairs in enabling entrepreneurs to learn from each other, gain insights into market demands, and showcase innovations.
  • The fair contributes to the economic growth, transformation, and resilience pillar of the sixth National Development Plan (NDP 6), focusing on areas such as youth employment, local value addition, and digital transformation.
  • This year's exhibition has attracted 450 exhibitors, including 26 international participants from Tanzania, Kenya, Ghana, Zimbabwe, Indonesia, Botswana, and South Africa.
  • The fair has empowered women and young people, with 70% and 60% of exhibitors being women and youth, respectively.
  • The OATF reinforces the Memorandum of Engagement between Namibia's Oshana, Ohangwena, Oshikoto, and Omusati Regions, and South Africa's Limpopo Province, aiming to promote regional economic integration and collaboration.
  • President Nandi-Ndaitwah welcomed a high-level delegation led by Dr Phophi Ramathuba, Premier of Limpopo Province, highlighting the close cooperation between Namibia and South Africa under the Bi-National Commission.

Statistics:

  • 70% of exhibitors at the OATF are women.
  • 60% of exhibitors at the OATF are youth.
  • 450 exhibitors are participating in the Ongwediva Annual Trade Fair (OATF) this year.
  • 26 international participants from Tanzania, Kenya, Ghana, Zimbabwe, Indonesia, Botswana, and South Africa are attending the OATF.

Sources:

  • President Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah, NAMPA, 25 August 2025.

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