Maria David
PREPARATIONS are underway for the hosting of the Ongwediva Annual Trade Fair (OATF) which promises to create unique business networking opportunities for all participants.
The expo starts Friday and will conclude on the 2nd of September.
A total of 361 local and foreign exhibitors have registered for this year’s event compared to 450 exhibitors in 2019.
According to Ongwediva town spokesperson Jackson Muma, the foreign exhibitors are coming from countries such as South Africa, Zimbabwe, Ghana, Botswana and Japan.
Meanwhile, a total of 120 security guards from four different companies have been hired to ensure the safety of the visitors and exhibitors and their property during the event.
Sixty guards will be on duty per shift.
The hosting of the OATF was put on hold for two years due to the outbreak of the COVID-19 pandemic.
The return of the OATF is good for the economic growth of the town and the region as a whole.
Muma said that accommodation establishments at Ongwediva are fully booked. Some exhibitors had to find accommodation in neighbouring towns.
According to a local businessman Jekko Nambili, the return of the trade fair is a chance for business people to boost their income through the sale of their products and services.
“Such exhibition platforms are needed in the region for local businesses that were negatively affected by COVID-19,” he said.
He urged Namibians from all walks of life to flock to the OATF.
Meanwhile, a local resident of Ongwediva Sadrag Fillipus, said that the trade fair is a good opportunity for locals to showcase their products and services.
“The fact that it hasn’t taken place for the last two years brings back excitement to the people,” he said.
Fillipus then urged those visiting to be vigilant of criminals as they will be flocking to the town.
The biggest event on the town’s calendar will be officially opened by President Hage Geingob on Sunday.
