Ongwediva Trade Fair gears up for 24th edition
The Ongwediva Annual Trade Fair (OATF) gala dinner, held earlier this month at the Ongwediva Trade Fair Grounds, raised an impressive N$1.6 million in support of the 24th edition of the trade fair.
The event brought together a dynamic mix of Namibia’s corporate leaders, government officials, entrepreneurs, and community members in a show of unity and shared purpose.
Nedbank Namibia Managing Director, Martha Murorua, praised the OATF as a model for decentralised development and inclusive economic opportunity.
“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 into the larger central hubs.”
Murorua drew parallels between Ongwediva’s growth and global urban development strategies, referencing Dubai’s 2040 Urban Master Plan as an example of how towns can be reimagined to become more inclusive, sustainable, and economically resilient. “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, Taarah Shalyefu, welcomed guests with a call to action: “Whether through sponsorship, mentorship, in-kind support or strategic collaboration, every pledge tonight is a step towards ensuring that OATF 2025 not only meets expectations but exceeds them.”
Rebekka Hidulika, Chairperson of the OATF Preparatory Committee, provided historical context and a bold vision for the future.
“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 trade fair, themed “Innovate – Connect – Prosper,” is expected to host around 480 exhibitors, including participants from the SADC region, Ghana, Japan and Indonesia. New features include an expanded Business Forum and Business-to-Business Matchmaking Sessions, with a high-level delegation from South Africa’s Limpopo Province.
The event brought together a dynamic mix of Namibia’s corporate leaders, government officials, entrepreneurs, and community members in a show of unity and shared purpose.
Nedbank Namibia Managing Director, Martha Murorua, praised the OATF as a model for decentralised development and inclusive economic opportunity.
“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 into the larger central hubs.”
Murorua drew parallels between Ongwediva’s growth and global urban development strategies, referencing Dubai’s 2040 Urban Master Plan as an example of how towns can be reimagined to become more inclusive, sustainable, and economically resilient. “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, Taarah Shalyefu, welcomed guests with a call to action: “Whether through sponsorship, mentorship, in-kind support or strategic collaboration, every pledge tonight is a step towards ensuring that OATF 2025 not only meets expectations but exceeds them.”
Rebekka Hidulika, Chairperson of the OATF Preparatory Committee, provided historical context and a bold vision for the future.
“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 trade fair, themed “Innovate – Connect – Prosper,” is expected to host around 480 exhibitors, including participants from the SADC region, Ghana, Japan and Indonesia. New features include an expanded Business Forum and Business-to-Business Matchmaking Sessions, with a high-level delegation from South Africa’s Limpopo Province.
