Ongwediva Annual Trade Fair gala dinner reinforces vision for inclusive economic growth

9 July 2025

The Ongwediva Annual Trade Fair (OATF) Gala Dinner, held on Saturday, 5 July 2025 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 powerful demonstration of unity and shared purpose.

The evening was attended by Honourable Hofni Iipinge, Governor of the Oshana Region, alongside mayors from several Namibian towns, and representatives from major corporates in the financial services and telecommunications sectors. Local businesses and residents of Ongwediva also turned out in strong support.

Delivering the keynote address, Nedbank Namibia Managing Director Martha Murorua praised the OATF as a model of 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 in 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.

The Mayor of Ongwediva, His Worship 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 toward 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 international participants from the SADC region, Ghana, Japan, and Indonesia. Among the new features is an expanded Business Forum, including Business-to-Business Matchmaking Sessions with a high-level delegation from South Africa’s Limpopo Province.

Murorua underscored the importance of this theme: "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."

The Gala Dinner concluded with a renewed sense of purpose and partnership, as stakeholders pledged their support to ensure that OATF 2025 continues to be a beacon of innovation and economic empowerment for Namibia and the wider region.