All set for Ongwediva Annual Trade Fair

Excitement is brewing as the highly celebrated Ongwediva Annual Trade Fair (OATF) kicks off this Friday under the theme ‘Innovate, Connect, Prosper.’

Organisers say this year’s edition will feature hundreds of local and international exhibitors, and uphold the vibrant mix of business, culture and entertainment.

Lonia Nghuulikwa, convener of the OATF preparatory committee’s marketing and publicity subcommittee, says all is in place for a memorable event.

“Again, the trade fair will be a major exhibition, networking, and stakeholder engagement platform. We are eagerly waiting to see our regional and international partners come together to showcase innovation, create partnerships, and forge economic deals,” she says.

A total of 450 exhibitors are reserved for this year, of which 26 are international exhibitors from Tanzania, Kenya, Ghana, Zimbabwe, Indonesia, South Africa, and Botswana.

Nghuulikwa highlights that the number is still likely to rise before the fair’s opening.

She says one of the most notable additions to the programme is a Business-to-Business (B2B) matchmaking forum, which will take place under the business forum.

Namibian businesses will be matched with an arriving delegation of business executives from the Limpopo province of South Africa.

Targeted sectors include construction by-products, manufacturing of food and beverages, cosmetics and skincare, and light manufacturing.

“The B2B segment is designed meticulously to develop meaningful trade relationships, business growth, and regional market integration through strategic interaction,” Nghuulikwa says.

She also notes that security has been enhanced with 13 security points, over 160 security officers, a 24-hour police satellite station, and closed-circuit television monitoring on the site.

EVENT HIGHLIGHTS

Organisers say the OATF calendar will feature business, cultural, and entertainment activities which include the exhibitors’ welcoming ceremony and opening music bash, introduction of Miss OATF 2025 finalists, official ceremony hosted by president Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah (free admission until programme ends), OATF dance competition and business symposium, ‘Oxungi Oshiwambo’ night of culture, farmers engagement session, award ceremony for exhibitors, Miss OATF 2025 grand finale and Ongwediva Town Council networking engagement and closing bash music.

Nghuulikwa reiterates OATF’s vision of empowering young businesspeople and small businesses, adding that many will find the business forum and the B2B sessions beneficial.

“OATF has always been a start-up platform. We are doing the same again this year by giving small and medium enterprises and start-ups networking and exposure options that can alter their growth path,” she adds.

This year’s event is anticipated to attract high-profile guests including the president, ministers, National Council members, and Oshana Regional Council officials, with confirmations likely closer to the date.

While the exhibition area has already been reserved, Nghuulikwa says the public can expect a well-planned event with safety, professionalism, and a good visitor experience.

“All is set for this year’s trade fair. We invite the general public to attend in large groups to network, discover, and celebrate what Namibia and our international partners have to offer,” she adds.

The trade fair will conclude on 30 August.

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