The Ongwediva Annual Trade Fair (OATF) Gala Dinner has raised N$1.6 million in support of the 24th edition of the trade fair scheduled to take place later this year.
Hosted at the Ongwediva Trade Fair Grounds, the event drew senior government officials, corporate leaders, local entrepreneurs and community members, in what organisers described as a strong show of public-private partnership.
Oshana Governor, Honourable Hofni Iipinge, attended the event, alongside mayors from various Namibian towns and representatives from major corporates, particularly from the financial and telecommunications sectors.
Delivering the keynote address, Nedbank Namibia Managing Director Martha Murorua described the trade fair as a key example of decentralised development.
“The Ongwediva Annual Trade Fair is a symbol of possibility, of what can happen when we decentralise and diversify economic development,” she said. “It reminds us that we need to channel our economic energy across Namibia, not only in the larger central hubs.”
Murorua also highlighted international models for urban planning, referencing Dubai’s 2040 Urban Master Plan. She encouraged local investment in towns to reduce the need for people to migrate in search of jobs and services.
“The idea is simple but powerful: build strong local economies where people live, so they don’t have to uproot their lives to find work or access essential services,” she said.
Ongwediva Mayor, His Worship Taarah Shalyefu, used the occasion to call for greater support from both the public and private sectors.
“Whether through sponsorship, mentorship, in-kind support, or strategic collaboration, every pledge tonight is a step toward ensuring that OATF 2025 not only meets expectations but exceeds them,” he said.
Chairperson of the OATF Preparatory Committee, Rebekka Hidulika, reflected on the fair’s evolution over the years.
“What began as a regional trade showcase has matured into one of Namibia’s foremost platforms for trade, investment, and innovation,” she said. “Our vision is clear: we want to transform the Trade Fair into a multi-purpose, smart, and sustainable business connector, building and shaping the future of our economy.”
This year’s edition, under the theme “Innovate – Connect – Prosper,” is expected to host around 480 exhibitors, including international participants from the SADC region, Ghana, Japan and Indonesia.
A key feature of OATF 2025 will be an expanded Business Forum, with Business-to-Business Matchmaking Sessions planned in partnership with a high-level delegation from South Africa’s Limpopo Province.
Murorua said the theme was fitting in light of the fair’s broader ambitions.
“To innovate, we must be bold and future-focused. To connect, we must seek partnerships across sectors and borders. And to truly prosper, we must place people at the centre of development, supporting women-led enterprises, rural SMEs, and youth innovators,” she said.
